The onset of the syndrome is often preceded by bacterial or viral infections. It can also be triggered by vaccinations or surgical interventions.
In countries affected by cases of Zika virus infection, an unexpected increase in cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome has been reported. Based on existing data, the most likely explanation is that Zika virus infection is a trigger for the syndrome.
How many cases are there in Peru?
The number of deaths from the syndrome rose to four and the cases exceeded 180 between January and July, according to a new balance from the Ministry of Health in Peru.
What response does the government make?
It is “declared a National Health Emergency for a period of 90 days due to the unusual increase in cases of Guillain Barré Syndrome,” said a statement from the Ministry of Health.
The emergency includes the 25 regions of the country.
“There has been a significant increase in recent weeks that forces us to take actions as a State to protect the health and life of the population,” Health Minister César Vásquez told the press.
The minister explained that this declaration will allow the purchase of immunoglobulin for the treatment of patients with the disease for the next two years.
With information from AFP