What is Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS)?
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a strange but serious autoimmune disorder In which the body The immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. Can cause Muscle weakness, numbness, tingling and even paralysis In severe cases. Allhehe most patients recover, can be the care of life if the Respiratory muscles or autonomous functions are affected.
GB can hit anyone, he thought it is much more common among Adults and older people. There is There is no known cause for GBS; However, most cases occur after a Infection or viral disease.
How is GBS transmitted?
GBS itself is not contagious, since it does not extend from one person to another, such as flu or COVID-19. Never more useless, Some infections associated with GBS are transmissible, Making someone more likely develop the syndrome.
These are the main ways in which GBS is associated with infections:
- Viral and bacterial infections:
Most GBS cases occur After a bacterial or viral infectionwhich triggers an abnormal immune response. Common infections linked to GBS include:
- Campylobacter jejuni (bacteria transmitted by food): A main cause of Food poisoning, or of Little cooked poultry or contaminated water.
- Influenza (flu): Some cases of GBS have associated with flu viruses, Either through the disease, or, more rarely, after the flu vaccines.
- Citomegalovirus (CMV): A broad viral infection, or in people with immune tissue systems.
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): The agent causing mononucleosis (mono), Associated with some cases of GBS.
- Zika virus: This virus transmitted by mosquitoes has been associated with a greater incidence of Cases of GBS in affected areas.
2. Respiratory and gastrointestinal infections:
- Most GB cases occur after a Upper respiratory tract infection (a “cold”, sinus infections or pneumonia).
- Gastrointestinal infectionsIt must or caused by Campylobacter bacteria, they are significant triggers for GB.
3. Immunizations and some non -causative associations:
Fair Vaccination is considered safeIn extremely rare circumstances, some people have developed GBS After the flu vaccine, the COVID-19 vaccine or other types of vaccines. However, The risk is sharply lower than the GBS rate of a real infection.
4. Autoimmune and immune system disorders:
- Autoimmune conditions Or reactions At mediations, surgery or trauma Sometimes GBS causes.
- Stress and genetic predisposition It can also contribute to some cases.
How to prevent GBS?
Since GBS is mainly a sequel to infections In most people, Infection reduction It can be protective, including
- Wash your hands frequently To prevent bacterial and viral infections
- Cooking food, especially poultry, well To avoid Campylobacter infections.
- Vaccinate accept Influenza, Covid-19 and other preventable diseases.
- Drink safe and clean water To avoid contaminated sources.
- Practice mosquito protection In areas where the Zika virus is common.
- Increase your immune system With a healthy diet, proper exercise and hygiene.
Final thoughts
GBS is not direct contagious But it can be precipitated by Common infections that spread easily. Practice Good hygiene, food security and preventive medical care Reduce the risk of infections that could lead to GBS. In case you or a loved one suffer from Sudden weakness, numbness or inability to move, request medical assistance immediately; The sooner the treatment is, the better the result.
However, GBS symptoms are similar to those of many other neurological diseases. Therefore, your doctor will perform additional tests to rule out any additional potential condition. These exams could consist or:
GBS virus cases in India
Among the total of 197 patients, seven GBS suspicious reported deaths
Do you have questions? Find out!
Understanding GB can help you Protect yourself and others. If you want to learn more about GBS, vaccines and immune healthOur follows Health blog for regular updates!
Keep sure, stay healthy!
