Two dozen people along U.S./Mexico border sick with Guillain Barre Syndrome

An apparent food poisoning outbreak along the U.S./Mexico border is blamed for nearly two dozen cases of a rare nerve disorder.

According to an MSNBC.com report, at least 24 people in Yuma County, Ariz., and a territory in Mexico have been confirmed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a rare disorder which causes nerve damage and could lead to paralysis. Among the victims, some have been “drastically” impacted by their illness.

Health officials on both sides of the border have not identified a source of the outbreak, but believe food poisoning may likely have had a role. In Arizona, one official told MSNBC.com that any victims being treated for Guillain-Barre Syndrome have been unable to walk at the time of their initial treatment.

At least four of the victims of the outbreak have tested positive for Campylobacter poisoning and officials believe the remaining victims have also been exposed to the same virus.

Guillain Barre Syndrome is extremely rare and early symptoms of infection are weakness in the arms and legs or numbness in the fingers and toes. In some cases, symptoms can be severe and require hospitalization.

Most people affected with Guillain Barre Syndrome make full recoveries, but not quickly and not without pain. Campylobacter is often spread through undercooked meat and poultry, unpasteurized milk or dirty water.