Guillain-Barré Syndrome outbreak: Andhra Pradesh reports first death; state on high alert

GBS is a rare immune-mediated disorder affecting the nervous system, typically seen in individuals aged 20 to 40

Andhra Pradesh reported the death of a 10-year-old boy from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Srikakulam district.

The deceased Vatada Yuvatha, a resident of Kapu Godayavalasa village in Santhabommali mandal, was declared brain dead on Monday after his condition deteriorated rapidly.

This is the first death because of the disease in Andhra Pradesh that has taken the lives of 8 people in Maharashtra.

Yuvatha initially complained of throat pain and fever, after which his parents, Chiranjeevi and Roja, took him to private hospitals in Srikakulam and Visakhapatnam. Despite the treatment, his condition worsened, and he was diagnosed with GBS at a private hospital in Visakhapatnam. He was later transferred to James Hospital in Ragolu, where he was declared dead.

GBS is a rare immune-mediated disorder affecting the nervous system, typically seen in individuals aged 20 to 40.

According to a New Indian Express report, the state administration has issued a directive to district health officials to remain vigilant and raise public awareness. Srikakulam District Collector Swapnil Dinakar Pundkar reassured the public that GBS is neither an epidemic nor contagious. He noted that similar cases, though rare, occur occasionally in the district and are usually treated successfully.

Health Minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav has instructed officials across districts to implement preventive measures and educate the public on the symptoms of GBS. "With the first reported case in the state, vigilance is crucial," Yadav said.

Yuvatha's parents, meanwhile, have decided to donate his organs. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed his condolences on social media, calling the boy's death tragic and commending the parents for their selfless decision. He also assured them of the government's full support during this difficult time.

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a condition in which the body's immune system attacks the nerves. The different forms of GBS are commonly known as Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS), Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy (AMAN), and Acute Motor-Sensory Axonal Neuropathy (AMSAN). According to reports, GBS can cause numbness, weakness, or paralysis. The first symptoms include weakness and tingling in the hands and feet.

What is the line of treatment?

Treatments such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasma exchange have revolutionized outcomes, but timely intervention remains critical. According to doctors, 80% of affected patients regain the ability to walk unaided within six months of hospital discharge, though some may take a year or longer to fully recover limb function.