Pune has witnessed a concerning rise in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in recent days, primarily attributed to water contamination. However, new findings have revealed that livestock from poultry farms near the Khadakwasla area also carry bacteria that contribute to the disease, with infected chickens being sold throughout the city.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar addressed the situation on Saturday, stating that while the GBS surge along Sinhagad Road, near the Khadakwasla Dam, was initially linked to contaminated water, the source has expanded to include poultry products from the area’s farms. “The GBS surge was initially thought to be due to water contamination, but we’ve now found that it’s also linked to the consumption of chicken from poultry farms upstream of the Khadakwasla dam,” he explained.
Pawar emphasized that there is no need to cull the poultry, but urged citizens to ensure that chicken is cooked thoroughly to eliminate any potential risks. “Doctors have confirmed that consuming undercooked infected chicken can lead to infections in humans, so it is vital to cook it properly before consumption,” he advised. He reassured the public, stating, “There is no need to panic. Well-cooked chicken is safe to consume, and the situation is under control.”
The National Institute of Virology (NIV) conducted testing of poultry from the affected area, finding that 23 out of 66 samples were positive for Campylobacter jejuni, a bacterium linked to GBS. Additionally, five out of 60 samples tested positive for norovirus. Ongoing tests are being conducted on the remaining samples.
Water samples taken from private reverse osmosis (RO) plants and from affected residents’ taps were also found to contain GBS-causing bacteria. In response, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has sealed several private RO plants selling contaminated water and is now supplying treated water to the most affected areas along Sinhagad Road.
The authorities have implemented additional water safety measures, including daily bleaching of wells and increased chlorination before water is distributed throughout the city. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been called upon to step up its inspection efforts for shops selling poultry and water products to ensure public safety.
Interestingly, approximately one-third of the GBS patients reside in areas outside the Sinhagad Road region, raising concerns that poultry products and contaminated RO water may be contributing to the broader spread of the disease. “While water is likely the source of infection in the Sinhagad Road area, poultry and RO water contamination are responsible for the cases in other parts of the city,” a civic officer stated.
Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious, ensuring they only consume properly cooked poultry and access safe drinking water to avoid further spread of GBS in Pune.