Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS), which has infected more than 100 people in Maharashtra, is spreading among people of all age groups. Interestingly, it affects adults more, especially men. Recently, a 41-year-old chartered accountant from Pune became the first casualty of the disease. To investigate the sudden rise of this infection, the state health department has also set up a Rapid Response Team, which surveys Pune's households and corporation limits. A team of doctors, including experts from Delhi and Bengaluru comprising those from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), NIMHANS Bengaluru and Family Welfare and NIV of Pune , allotted by the central government, are also at Pune to help handle the infections. This is in addition to the three experts in Pune from the National Institute of Virology (NIV). The autoimmune condition is said to be triggered by an acute viral and bacterial infection due to contamination of food and water. Meanwhile, many wonder whether GBS will lead to the next epidemic or pandemic-like situation. Here's what doctors say:

Will GBS cause another pandemic?
As per reports, doctors have clarified that GBS is not likely to lead to an epidemic or pandemic-like situation. A disease is declared a pandemic only when it spreads across countries, between human beings in high numbers, and involves an unknown pathogen, disrupting daily life significantly. Pandemics are declared by the World Health Organisation when these conditions are met. Similarly, GBS is not considered an epidemic, as it is not a contagious disease that is transmitted directly. 

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Key precaution steps of GBS
1) Practice frequent hygiene steps like handwashing and sanitising your body whenever required.
2) Eat a balanced diet and get quality, uninterrupted sleep. Also, stay fit by exercising regularly.
3) Make sure your flu vaccinations are upt to date. If you suspect you are infected, take prompt medical help.
4) Clean the exposed surfaces that are commonly used in your living spaces, often. Ensure the tables, countertops, phones, door handles, bathroom fixtures, etc, are disinfected and clean. 
5) If there is anyone with suspected infections or stomach flu in your area, practice social distancing from them.
'Guillain-barre syndrome' has more than 10K search volume on Google Trends in the past 21 hours. 

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