Kerala reports first Guillain-Barre Syndrome death in Kochi: Details

A 58-year-old Ernakulam native from Vazhakkulam has become the first victim of the autoimmune disorder Guillain-Barre Syndrome in Kerala. The patient, who was under treatment at Kottayam Medical College, passed away on Monday. A few days ago, Andhra Pradesh also had reported a death and around 17 cases. A 10-year-old boy from Tamil Nadu had also lost his life to GBS a few days ago. Around 14 deaths have been reported all over the country due to the diseases so far. So far, the exact cause of the disease, which has been reported in various Indian states, has not been fully understood though it's generally found to follow an infection with virus or bacteria. The first GBS death in the country was reported in Maharashtra's Pune towards the end of last month. 

What is GBS?
When infected by GBS, our body's immune system attacks its nerves, causing paralysis, numbness, and weakness. GBS infections include gastrointestinal infections. The Zika virus can also cause it. There is no known cure yet for the syndrome, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, treatments are performed to ease its symptoms for recovery. Apparently, the recovery from the disease can take up to several years in some people. Most people should be able to walk again in six months. 

Symptoms of GBS
1) Tingling feeling on ankles, wrists, toes and fingers
2) Weakness in the upper body and legs
3) Not able to walk or climb stairs in a steady manner
4) Difficulty in facial movements, swallowing, chewing and speaking
5) Inability to move eyes, double vision
6)  Severe aches in various parts of the body
7) Bladder control and bowel function issues
8) Rapid heart rate, low or high blood pressure
9) Difficulty in breathing

How to prevent the infection?
1) Drink only boiled water. Boil the water for at least a minute before drinking. Cool it and store it in clean, covered containers. 
2) Invest in a high-quality water filter to eliminate the presence of contaminants. 
3) Do not store your water in plastic bottles, that too for a long time. Use stainless steel and glass bottles instead and ensure they are closed well.
4) Do not use contaminated water even to wash your utensils or vegetables and fruits or for brushing.
5) Make sure you wash your hands with clean water and soap before cooking, having food, after using the bathroom, touching public surfaces or handling garbage.
6) Use alcohol-based sanitisers whenever required.