FACT CHECK | Is Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak In Pune Linked To COVID-19 Vaccine? Medical Experts Weigh In

So far, 59 people in Pune have been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder. Authorities have yet to identify the cause of the outbreak. However, rumours have been circulating that the disorder is linked to the COVID-19 vaccine. In response, The Free Press Journal sought expert opinions, and medical professionals have stated that these rumours are false.

'GBS is an immune-mediated condition'

Dr Lomesh Bhirud, Neurologist and Neuro-Interventionalist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, said, “The recent increase in GBS cases is not related to the COVID-19 vaccine. GBS is an immune-mediated condition that generally occurs after viral or bacterial infections, especially when the immune system becomes dysregulated. This can cause damage to the peripheral nerves, leading to GBS. The recent outbreaks have been linked to diarrheal illnesses and not vaccination.”

“COVID-19 vaccinations were administered to millions of people worldwide. Although there are rare case reports of GBS following vaccination, these are coincidental. There has been no outbreak or rise in GBS cases linked to the vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccination drives concluded over a year ago, and the timing of the GBS cases supports no association. Claims linking GBS to the COVID-19 vaccine are unfounded and lack scientific evidence,” he added.

'Currently, four patients are under our care'

Dr Girish Date, Consultant in Critical Care at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospitals, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune, explained the reason for the increase in cases in Pune. "Based on observations, it's the season for GBS cases, and our hospital has seen a notable rise in these cases. In the past month alone, Sahyadri Hospitals treated seven patients diagnosed with GBS. Currently, four patients are under our care, with two receiving immunoglobulin treatment and the other two being closely monitored. Some of these cases have presented with severe symptoms. As per protocol, we have sent information about these patients to the PMC. Although GBS is not contagious, we advise anyone experiencing symptoms like fever and loose motions followed by muscle weakness to seek medical attention.”

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