Doctors Warn Against Contaminated Food Amid Rising Cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in India Surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases Raises Concerns

Understanding Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)

GBS is a rare but serious autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system, causing symptoms such as:

• Muscle weakness
• Numbness or tingling in the limbs
• Paralysis in severe cases

The syndrome occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, often after a bacterial or viral infection.

Gastroenteritis: A Major Trigger

Doctors from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and other major hospitals have highlighted gastroenteritis as a key trigger for GBS. Contaminated food and water can introduce harmful bacteria, such as Campylobacter jejuni, which is known to be a leading cause of the syndrome.

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis

Individuals infected with contaminated food may experience:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever and dehydration

Since bacterial infections like Campylobacter and Salmonella can damage the nervous system, experts stress the importance of maintaining food hygiene.

Precautionary Measures Recommended by Experts

Doctors have urged the public to follow strict food safety measures to reduce the risk of GBS and other foodborne illnesses:

1. Avoid Contaminated Paneer and Rice

• Consume freshly prepared paneer from hygienic sources.
• Avoid stale or improperly stored rice, as bacteria thrive in leftover food.

2. Be Cautious with Meat and Seafood

• Always cook meat and seafood thoroughly to eliminate harmful bacteria.
• Avoid raw or undercooked meat, especially from street vendors.

3. Say No to Raw Salads in Unhygienic Conditions

• Wash vegetables properly before consumption.
• Avoid salads from restaurants or stalls with questionable hygiene practices.

4. Drink Clean and Purified Water

• Use boiled or filtered water to prevent bacterial contamination.
• Avoid drinking water from unknown or unhygienic sources.

Healthcare Response and Public Awareness

The Indian medical community is closely monitoring the situation and raising awareness about the importance of food safety. Hospitals are advising individuals experiencing persistent gastroenteritis symptoms to seek medical attention immediately, especially if they develop weakness or tingling sensations in their limbs.

With food safety measures and early medical intervention, doctors believe that the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome can be effectively managed. The public is urged to stay vigilant and prioritize safe eating practices to protect against bacterial infections that could have severe consequences.