GBS Cases Surge in Pune: A significant rise in Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases in areas like Khadakwasla and Kirkitwadi along Sinhagad Road in Pune has prompted investigations into potential causes beyond just contaminated water. It has now come to light that consuming raw or undercooked chicken could also be a contributing factor, as revealed by Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and Pune’s Guardian Minister, Ajit Pawar. (GBS Cases Surge in Pune)
Follow the Pune Updates channel on WhatsApp:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb2Z6498F2pHMwM9YA1S
Pawar shared this information during a visit to the Pune Municipal Corporation, where he extended greetings to officials and staff on the occasion of the corporation’s Amrit Mahotsav year. While addressing the media, he acknowledged the initial suspicion of contaminated water being the culprit behind the GBS surge. However, investigations have indicated that consumption of raw chicken by residents in the affected areas is another possible cause of the illness.
Pawar emphasized the need for citizens to ensure that meat is thoroughly cooked before consumption. He advised against culling or burning chickens in the area, clarifying that the issue lies with consuming raw meat, not the chickens themselves. He has directed the Divisional Commissioner and health officials to provide guidance and information to the public on measures to prevent the further spread of the illness.
While acknowledging a slight decline in new GBS cases, Pawar stressed the importance of continued vigilance and precautionary measures. He reiterated the advice to boil and filter water before drinking and highlighted the need for public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about preventive measures against GBS. He assured that necessary instructions have been given to the Divisional Commissioner to facilitate these efforts.
This new information about the potential link between raw chicken consumption and GBS cases adds another layer to the ongoing investigation into the outbreak in Pune. Public health officials are now tasked with educating the community about safe food handling practices in addition to ensuring access to clean water to effectively combat the spread of this rare but serious neurological disorder.
