What type of infection commonly precedes Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) often follows a viral infection, making "viral" the correct answer. This connection is particularly strong with certain viruses, such as the influenza virus, cytomegalovirus, Zika virus, and Epstein-Barr virus. The precise mechanism is still being studied, but it is believed that the body's immune response to a viral infection may mistakenly attack the nervous system, leading to the symptoms associated with GBS.

While bacterial infections can also be implicated in some cases of GBS, such as Campylobacter jejuni, the viral infections are more commonly recognized as significant precursors. Fungal and parasitic infections are not typically associated with the onset of Guillain-Barré Syndrome. The focus on viral infections highlights the importance of understanding the role of the immune response and the neurological implications following certain infectious diseases, which are crucial for both diagnosis and potential prevention strategies in clinical practice.