Rapid paralysis: Man succumbs to GBS

Kochi: A 58-year-old man from Ernakulam died of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) while undergoing treatment at Govt Medical College in Kottayam.

Joy Iype of Vazhakkulam had been in the ICU for 22 days, receiving treatment for GBS. His family stated that the medical certificate from the hospital confirmed GBS as the cause of death, but the state health department is yet to officially confirm it. Meanwhile, health officials in launched an investigation on Tuesday, citing public health concerns.

"My father first experienced leg weakness on Jan 30. By the next day, he struggled to get into a car, and on Feb 1, he needed assistance to get out of bed," said his son, Dr Athul Iype, a medical professional.

After initial tests at a nearby hospital, doctors noticed weakening facial muscles. He was then rushed to the medical college and admitted to the ICU. However, his condition worsened rapidly.

"By the next day, his chest muscles became weak, and he had difficulty breathing. He was placed on ventilator support and remained on it until his passing," Dr Athul said, adding that before this, his father had no prior symptoms of GBS, no fever, or any other health issues.

Reports of new GBS outbreaks surfaced in Jan, with 14 deaths reported across India, 11 of them in Maharashtra. GBS is not new to Kerala, the state typically records 20-25 cases in govt and private hospitals. "Most patients recover quickly. Deaths due to GBS are rare here," said a neurologist.