Two people have died following an outbreak of Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome (GBS), a rare immune-mediated nerve disorder, in Madhya Pradesh&rsquo;s Neemuch district, prompting the state government to initiate an emergency response to identify patients and ensure timely treatment.
The outbreak has been reported from Manasa town, where more than a dozen cases have been detected so far. In response, authorities have been directed to set up a control room, establish a dedicated ward for GBS patients at the local government hospital, and strengthen medical infrastructure to manage the situation.
Deputy Chief Minister and Public Health and Medical Education Minister Rajendra Shukla visited Manasa, around 30 km from the district headquarters, on Saturday to review the evolving situation. The first cases were identified on January 12, after which patients were referred to hospitals in Jaipur and Ahmedabad for advanced treatment.
So far, 14 GBS cases have been confirmed in Manasa, which has a population of approximately 35,000. While two patients have succumbed to the illness, two others who were on life support are now reported to be out of danger.
Guillain-Barr&eacute; Syndrome occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to symptoms such as sudden numbness, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, difficulty in swallowing or breathing. The condition is sometimes associated with the consumption of contaminated water, unpasteurised dairy products, or undercooked poultry.
The state government is bearing the full cost of treatment for affected patients. Emergency measures include the deployment of ambulances equipped with life-saving systems, ensuring adequate stocks of medicines and injections, and creating awareness among residents about preventive precautions. Health teams are also conducting door-to-door surveys to monitor symptoms among the local population.
However, the exact cause of the outbreak is yet to be determined. Preliminary testing of samples from water purification plants and other locations has not indicated contamination. Blood serum samples of patients, along with food and environmental samples, have been sent to specialised laboratories in Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Pune for further analysis.

14 Guillain-Barré cases detected in Manasa as state steps up surveillance

GBS Outbreak in MP’s Neemuch Claims Two Lives

14 Guillain-Barré cases detected in Manasa as state steps up surveillance

January 18, 2026 | 05:15 IST