THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 31: Chief Minister Hemant Soren today reviewed the ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) and the arrangements for treating identified patients in a meeting with Health Department officials.
Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari joined the meeting online. Senior officials from the Health Department briefed the Chief Minister on the symptoms, side effects, and prevention measures for GBS.
What is GBS?
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a neurological disorder that causes abnormal tingling, numbness, pain, and muscle weakness. In severe cases, patients may experience difficulty speaking, closing their eyes tightly, chewing, swallowing, or even breathing. It can also cause an irregular heart rate and fluctuating blood pressure.
Public Awareness is Key to Preventing GBS
During the review, the Chief Minister instructed officials to implement special measures to identify GBS patients and ensure proper treatment facilities in hospitals.
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He emphasized the need for widespread awareness campaigns to prevent the spread of GBS, which is primarily caused by consuming contaminated water and raw food. The public should be clearly informed that GBS does not spread from person to person like COVID-19, and there is no need for panic. Instead, raising awareness is the best way to prevent the disease.
Additionally, the Chief Minister directed officials to screen people arriving in Jharkhand from areas where GBS cases have been reported. He also called for the establishment of a free testing centre for GBS in the city.
Strengthening Hospital Infrastructure
CM Soren instructed officials to ensure that hospitals are well-equipped with essential resources, including beds, medicines, and medical oxygen, to handle GBS cases.
He stressed that any suspected case should be immediately referred to RIMS for specialized treatment. The transport system must also remain on high alert to facilitate the swift transfer of patients to RIMS, ensuring timely medical care.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister urged district civil surgeons to closely monitor news and updates related to GBS so that necessary preparations can be made in advance. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring that no patient faces difficulties in accessing treatment.
RIMS Prepared for GBS Cases
During the review, RIMS Director Prof. (Dr.) Raj Kumar provided detailed guidelines on identifying and treating GBS patients. He assured that RIMS is fully prepared to deliver quality treatment and urged officials to refer any suspected cases to RIMS immediately.
He also emphasized the importance of making the public aware of GBS prevention measures and stated that official guidelines would soon be distributed to all civil surgeons and relevant authorities.
RIMS is on high alert regarding GBS, and officials are encouraged to spread awareness in their respective areas to help prevent the disease.
The review meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Avinash Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary of Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare Department Ajay Kumar Singh, RIMS Director Prof. (Dr.) Raj Kumar, National Health Mission Director Abu Imran, as well as Deputy Commissioners and Civil Surgeons from all districts, who participated virtually.
