Peru declares health emergency in response to rise in Guillain-Barré syndrome cases

Peru has announced a national health emergency for a period of 90 days due to a concerning surge in Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases.

The declaration aims to ensure an adequate supply of pharmaceutical products, enhance disease surveillance and research efforts, and improve patient care within healthcare services.

The official decree, published in the Official Gazette El Peruano, also emphasizes the need to strengthen the control of GBS cases, develop educational materials for public and healthcare personnel, and focus on prevention, preparedness, and effective management of the syndrome.

Acute bacterial or viral infections typically trigger Guillain-Barré syndrome.

The syndrome has also been isolated in the context of mRna vaccination (Covid) as one of the main side effects, along with myocarditis.

It manifests through symptoms such as weakness and tingling in the feet and legs, which can progress to affect the upper body and, in severe cases, lead to paralysis.

According to the National Center for Epidemiology, Disease Prevention and Control, as of June 23, 2023, there have been 103 reported cases of the syndrome this year.

The average monthly number of cases nationwide remains below 20, which is lower than the figures observed in previous years, particularly during the 2019 outbreak.

However, an uptick in cases has been observed since the end of June, with 16 reported cases compared to the earlier average range of 2 to 8 cases per week.

Recognizing the potential impact on the availability of immunoglobulin, a crucial treatment for GBS, Peru’s Minister of Health, César Vásquez Sánchez, urged the declaration of a sanitary emergency.

The purpose is to expedite acquiring and distributing the necessary immunoglobulin supplies to meet the growing demand.

“We have requested the declaration of a health emergency for Guillain-Barré syndrome in order to secure adequate immunoglobulin supplies.”

“If the number of cases continues to rise, there is a risk of shortage.”

“Our priority is to ensure the availability of treatment for the population,” stated Minister Sánchez after the Council of Ministers meeting, as the official Andina news agency reported.