Assembly Concurrent Resolution
No. 14
CHAPTER 75
Relative to Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
[
Filed with
Secretary of State
June 02, 2023.
]
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
ACR 14, Luz Rivas.
Public health: Guillain-Barré Syndrome Awareness Month.
This measure would declare May 2023 as Guillain-Barré Syndrome Awareness Month.
Digest Key
Fiscal Committee:
NO WHEREAS, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare disorder where the body’s immune system damages nerves. The damage to the nerves causes muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis; and
WHEREAS, According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 3,000 to 6,000 people in the United States develop GBS every year; and
WHEREAS, Anyone can develop GBS, but people older than 50 years are at greatest risk; and
WHEREAS, While the cause of GBS is not fully understood, the syndrome often occurs following an infection from a virus or bacteria; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing the early symptoms of GBS is important; and
WHEREAS, Symptoms usually begin with tingling or weakness in both legs and, in some cases, progress to weakness and tingling in the arms and upper body; and
WHEREAS, Muscle weakness from GBS can cause muscle atrophy and, in severe cases, paralysis; and
WHEREAS, Symptoms from GBS can progress over hours, days, or weeks; and
WHEREAS, While some patients begin to recover two to three weeks after the onset of symptoms, recovery for others can take as long as a few years; and
WHEREAS, While most people recover fully from GBS, some patients experience permanent nerve damage and even death; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby declares May 2023 as Guillain-Barré Syndrome Awareness Month in order to educate the public and increase awareness of the syndrome; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.