Why in the News?

In an alarming move, the Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases rise to 110 in Pune.

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)?

GBS is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves, causing muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.
It is rare, affecting 1–2 per 100,000 people annually.
It is more common in adults and males.
It is often triggered by viral or bacterial infections, especially Campylobacter jejuni (a cause of gastroenteritis), influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, Zika virus, or, in rare cases, vaccinations.
Its Symptoms:
- Early signs: Tingling, weakness in legs spreading to the upper body, pins-and-needles sensation, back pain.
- Severe cases: Paralysis, breathing difficulties, loss of speech, vision problems.
- Complications: Can affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to irregular heartbeat, blood pressure fluctuations, and potential respiratory failure.

No definitive cure, but treatments include:
- Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): Removes harmful antibodies attacking nerves.
- Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Therapy: Injects healthy antibodies to counteract immune attacks.
Supportive care: Some patients require ventilator support, physical therapy, and months to years of rehabilitation.

[2022] In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:

The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector-based platform.
COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3