Statement regarding GBS alert in Peru

July 10, 2023

July 10, 2023

The Foundation and its Global Medical Advisory Board are aware that Peru has issued a statement of emergency due to an increase in cases of Guillain Barre Syndrome. Please know we are here for you and the GBS|CIDP Foundation International is committed to addressing your concerns as accurately and efficiently as possible. 

A doctor-to-doctor consult with one of our global medical advisors is available to physicians worldwide, should your doctor need assistance in managing your GBS. Please see our website for more information.

Our GMAB is informed of the situation and as such have issued the following statement:

GBS is an immune disorder that is typically triggered by exposure to an infectious illness within 1-6 weeks. The most frequently encountered infectious illness is a gastrointestinal infection known as Campylobacter jejuni, which is commonly transmitted through food, particularly undercooked poultry and other meats. In 2019, there was a similar increase in GBS cases observed in Peru, and this outbreak was linked to a specific strain of Campylobacter infection. To minimize the risk of contracting Campylobacter, it is advised to follow certain precautions. These include: 

• Take extra care to cook food thoroughly, ensuring it reaches a safe temperature. Avoid consuming meat that has not been adequately refrigerated. 
• Ensure that the water you consume is from a safe source. If unsure, it is recommended to drink boiled or bottled water. 
• Before consuming raw fruits and vegetables ensure they are thoroughly washed. 
• Wash your hands frequently and properly, especially after handling raw meat 

If you have developed GBS we encourage you to work with your local health care team to manage the condition. The GMAB is available to answer questions from you or your doctor. We are committed to providing you with accurate and reliable information about your condition, and to support you and your doctors through these difficult times.

We will continue to provide information that is relevant to our community as it is made available in the upcoming days and weeks. Thank You.