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Amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, a severe and alarming surge of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases has erupted. The increase in cases of this usually rare neurological disorder is placing an immense strain on a devastated healthcare system, leading to preventable deaths and lifelong disability.
This brief provides an overview of GBS, the scale of the crisis in Gaza Strip, and the urgent actions required from the international community. It particularly focuses on the need for rehabilitation services, due to the long-lasting, disabling impact of GBS on many survivors.
What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
GBS is an acute autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own nerves. This attack disrupts signals between the brain and the body, resulting in pain and paralysis. This progressive weakness usually moves from the extremities toward the core. In severe cases, it paralysesthe muscles that control breathing, resulting in the need for mechanical ventilation. Persons with GBS also frequently experience pain and altered sensation. The sudden onset of worsening weakness and pain is a terrifying experience for those who are affected.
GBS often follows a bacterial or viral infection. The severe overcrowding as a result of destruction and displacement across the Gaza Strip, combined with the collapse of water and sanitation systems has led to a surge in infectious diseases, which are known triggers for GBS. GBS is usually a rare occurrence, requiring specialist medical care. During the period of 1st of June till 6th of October 2025, a total of 123 GBS cases were reported across the Gaza governorates. This surge is not only unusually large, but is also unusually severe.
There are two main treatments for GBS infections and relapse – Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasmapheresis. During June and July, the available stock of IV-IG and plasmapheresis filters was completely depleted by the sudden surge in cases. This led to a critical shortage of both treatment modalities, with stock levels reaching almost zero throughout August. This significantly impacted patient care, and only one GBS case out of 40 received IV-IG. By mid-September, the WHO successfully coordinated the delivery of sufficient plasmapheresis filters for the treatment of 49 patients. To date, IV-IG remains at zero stock due to the destruction of the health system and the Israeli blockade on the entry of medical supplies.