Only rely on verified sources for info on infectious diseases

Advancement in diagnostic techniques is enabling the discovery of new pathogens daily, and this is helping in getting the right information out on emerging infectious diseases and dispelling misinformation to stop unnecessary panic among people, says Dr T S Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Tamil Nadu, in an interview with Sinduja Jane.

- Edited excerpts:

Edited excerpts:

There is an outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in Pune. What should the public be aware of about this disease?

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a less common autoimmune disease where peripheral nerves are affected following diarrhoea or respiratory infection. Though the disease self-resolves with supportive therapy and immunoglobulin (proteins produced by white blood cells that help the body fight infection), it may lead to complications in some.

How does it spread, and what are the treatment options?

It usually starts as a simple respiratory or diarrhoea infection. In certain situations, the body produces antibodies that damage the nerve. Immunoglobulin provides a vital role in management, while other treatments are only supportive therapy.

What are the symptoms and what microorganisms cause it?