Chandigarh reports first Covid death as patient from Firozabad succumbs at GMCH

CHANDIGARH: The city recorded its first Covid fatality on Wednesday as a 40-year-old patient from Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, who was referred from Ludhiana, succumbed to the infection at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32. This marks a concerning development for Chandigarh, which had not reported a single Covid-19 case until now, even as the nation grapples with a fresh surge in infections.

Dr. G.P. Thami , Medical Superintendent at GMCH, confirmed the death, stating that the patient, who worked in Ludhiana, was admitted to the hospital two days ago with severe respiratory problems. He tested positive for Covid-19 on Tuesday and passed away early Wednesday morning.

"We tested him on the second day as he came with respiratory distress and was put on a ventilator," Dr. Thami explained. The patient was immediately placed in isolation within the hospital's Covid ward. Significantly, the patient had no reported comorbidities, raising further concerns about the virulence of the current strain.

The body of the deceased was packed and handed over to his relatives. While this is Chandigarh's first reported Covid-19 death, it is the eighth fatality reported across the country amidst the recent resurgence of the virus.

Health authorities are working to detect the variant of the Covid-19 responsible for this infection. In light of this development, Dr. Suman Singh, Director Health Services, UT, urged citizens to adhere to preventive measures. "Do not go to crowded places, wash hands and observe hygiene. Do not self-medicate in case you have flu-like symptoms. Wear masks wherever necessary," advised Dr. Singh.

The administration is on high alert, emphasizing the need for public vigilance and strict adherence to Covid-appropriate behavior to contain the spread of the virus in the city.