45-year-old woman succumbs to GBS in Guntur; health officials urge precautions as cases rise across the state.
Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh has recorded its second death due to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). On Sunday, a 45-year-old woman died of GBS at Guntur Government Hospital, bringing the state's recent toll to two.
Earlier, a 10-year-old boy identified as Vatada Yutha from Srikakulam district succumbed to GBS.
The latest victim, Kamalamma, hailed from Alasandalapalli village in Giddalur mandal of Prakasam district. She initially experienced numbness in her legs and hands, which later led to severe body weakness. After seeking treatment at a local primary health centre, she was referred to Guntur Government Hospital, where she was admitted on February 3. Despite nearly 13 days of treatment, she passed away on Sunday.
The hospital has admitted seven patients with similar GBS symptoms from various locations, including parts of Guntur district, Amalapuram in Konaseema district, Giddalur in Prakasam district, and Narasaraopeta in Palnadu district. Of these, five have been discharged, while one remains on ventilator support.
Guntur Government Hospital medical superintendent Dr SS Ramana confirmed Kamalamma’s death due to GBS. He stated that GBS is primarily caused by the bacterium Campylobacter jejuni. He advised people to consume only boiled water from safe sources and eat hot food, as the bacteria are commonly found in contaminated water and food.
Four district government hospitals—in Kurnool, Tirupati, Visakhapatnam, and Guntur—are currently providing treatment for GBS. So far, 17 cases have been reported from various parts of the state.
