Epidemiological surveillance remains active in cases of “Guillain Barré Syndrome” on the Southern Border – Ministry of Public Health

2023-07-11 00:36:45

Quito, July 10, 2023

Given the epidemiological alert raised by the Ministry of Health of Peru, due to the unusual increase in cases of “Guillain Barré Syndrome” in that country, the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador reports that, in order to identify cases, provide immediate care and knowing the possible origin of this disease keeps epidemiological surveillance active.
In Peru, 165 cases and 4 deaths have been reported so far this year, the alert is issued before the appearance of consecutive cases nationwide. The cause is unknown, however, this disease has been related to the ingestion of foods that have the Campylobacter jejuni bacterium among other gastrointestinal pathogens; This disease causes weakness of the lower and upper limbs, which can be mild to severe.
So far, 22 cases have been confirmed in Ecuador from January to May 2023, maintaining the expected trend according to reports from previous years, with no cases registered in the last three weeks.
This State portfolio carries out the following actions, with a focus on the southern border area: Disseminates the Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of “Guillain Barré Syndrome”, for the knowledge of health personnel.
It maintains the supply of immunoglobulins and other treatments such as plasmapheresis at the national level and their availability to establishments in the MSP network.
Activates the surveillance of Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) that is carried out at the national level to preserve the eradication of poliomyelitis and that allows the detection of possible cases of “Guillain Barré Syndrome”. Strengthens vaccination against poliomyelitis nationwide. It is recommended that the population wash all food before eating, wash their hands before preparing food and after using the bathroom; drink safe water, and in the event of symptoms such as weakness or tingling in the arms and legs, go to the nearest health center.