In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS): A Rare but Serious Neurological Disorder
Recent Outbreak in Pune, Maharashtra
- A recent outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) has been reported in Pune.
- The outbreak has been linked to Campylobacter, a bacterial gut infection spread through contaminated food and water.
- GBS is a rare but potentially paralysing nerve disorder caused by the immune system attacking the body's nerves.
- It is often triggered by gastrointestinal or respiratory infections.
- Infections: The most common cause, with Campylobacter bacteria being a primary trigger.
- Vaccinations or Surgery: In rare cases, some vaccines or surgeries can trigger an immune response leading to GBS.
- Other Viral Infections: Influenza, Zika virus, and COVID-19 have been associated with GBS cases.
- Muscle Weakness: Usually starts in the legs and spreads to the upper body.
- Numbness or Tingling: Initial symptoms often include tingling in the fingers and toes.
- Difficulty Walking: Weakness can progress, making it hard to stand or move.
- Loss of Reflexes: Reflexes become slower or disappear completely.
- Paralysis in Severe Cases: In extreme cases, it can lead to complete paralysis, including respiratory muscles.
- Diagnosis: Based on symptoms, nerve conduction tests, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis.
- Treatment:
- Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): Helps remove harmful antibodies from the blood.
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): Provides antibodies to reduce the immune attack.
- Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation helps in regaining muscle strength and function.
- Most patients recover within a few months to years, but some may experience long-term weakness.
- Early diagnosis and treatment improve the chances of full recovery.
- In severe cases, GBS can be life-threatening due to respiratory complications.
- Good Hygiene: Washing hands properly and avoiding contaminated food and water.
- Early Treatment: Seeking medical help at the first sign of weakness or paralysis.
- Monitoring Post-Infections: Being aware of GBS symptoms after an infection.
This rare neurological condition requires immediate medical attention for better recovery outcomes.