In mid-February, India experienced a rise in cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a nerve condition that can cause severe symptoms like pain, paralysis, and difficulties with breathing and swallowing. This outbreak began in Maharashtra and spread to Andhra Pradesh, likely linked to a stomach bug.
By February 19, Maharashtra had reported over 211 cases and 11 fatalities due to GBS. Andhra Pradesh also registered 17 cases and two deaths during February. Experts believe the bacterium Campylobacter jejuni, which often leads to gastrointestinal issues, might be the culprit behind this increase. The World Health Organization notes that while the exact cause of GBS remains unclear, most instances follow a preceding viral or bacterial infection.
Seasonal trends show that GBS cases can surge in winter, likely due to respiratory infections that rise during this time. Research has shown previous outbreaks in regions like French Polynesia and Latin America were connected to the Zika virus. Similarly, a 2019 outbreak in Peru was associated with an infection from Campylobacter jejuni.
Studies indicate that climate change may play a role in the increased prevalence of this bacterium. Extreme weather, such as floods and high temperatures, can create conditions that allow Campylobacter and other foodborne pathogens to thrive. Researchers are concerned that environmental changes could amplify these risks.
Data from India suggest a connection between rising temperatures and increased cases of GBS related to Campylobacter. The bacterium employs various survival strategies in harsh environments, allowing it to endure longer in water, particularly under colder conditions.
A report released in December 2024 highlighted that global warming is likely to lead to more outbreaks of foodborne illnesses like GBS, due to changes in weather patterns affecting bacteria transmission. These pathogens not only spread more easily but also can become resistant to antibiotics, posing further health risks.
About 30% of human infections from Campylobacter come from consuming poultry, with beef contributing another 20-30%. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns also link to spikes in human GBS cases. For instance, studies in Scandinavian countries predict significant increases in Campylobacter cases due to climate change, with excess cases rising significantly by the end of the 2080s.
Research has also explored how water quality influences Campylobacter outbreaks. Factors like ammonium and chloride levels can predict bacterial presence in water sources. These studies suggest that maintaining good water quality could be crucial in controlling the spread of these pathogens.
In summary, the interaction between climate change, water quality, and foodborne pathogens such as Campylobacter jejuni highlights an urgent need for public health strategies to manage these risks effectively.
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