Neurologist Jose Silie Ruiz told reporters yesterday Wednesday, 13 April 2016 that he “hopes to God that [the country does] not suffer from an outbreak of Guillian Barre Syndrome (GBS).”
Speaking to reporters from Diario Libre, Dr. Silie said that the syndrome has a 25% mortality rate and could cost patients between RD$10,000 and RD$15,000 per day if not detected early enough. He explained that the disease triggered by the Zika virus generates toxic substances that affect the central nervous system. Symptoms include weakness in the legs and arms, usually beginning with the feet and moving upwards, possibly even reaching the neck muscles and leading to life threatening breathing paralysis, which is why it is so serious. The syndrome is diagnosed clinically at first and then through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). Loss of reflexes is an early indication of the syndrome, which can also lead to encephalitis.
According to the specialist, everyone is susceptible, but middle-aged people are particularly prone. There are also high risks for children and patients with chronic diseases such as HIV. GBS can be confused with meningitis because the patient feels nauseated and prone to vomiting. Anyone with some or all of these symptoms should visit a specialist by the second day of feeling lower limb weakness. The long-lasting effects of GBS can be months of weakness in the legs, which can be overcome with physiotherapy.
