India, Feb. 3 -- For survivors of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), being discharged from the hospital is just the beginning of a long and often difficult recovery with many requiring extensive physiotherapy, mental health support and long-term care to regain their mobility and independence, according to doctors.

A case in point is Akash (name changed), 30, a resident of Nanded Phata for whom it all began with what seemed like a routine case of diarrhoea on January 17. The next day, he was admitted to Pulse Multispecialty Hospital where he was diagnosed with GBS. Though he was discharged on January 31, he continues to be bedridden. "The doctors saved him but he has lost all strength in his limbs. After 15 days of treatment, there is some mo...