28-05-2025
40-year-old Covid patient from UP dies in Chandigarh hospital
A 40-year-old patient from Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, who was referred to the Government Medical College and Hospital in Chandigarh's Sector 32 from Ludhiana after he tested positive for Covid-19, died early on Wednesday. This is the first reported case of Covid-19 in Chandigarh amid the latest surge of the infection, even as one case was recently reported in Mohali.
At present, the authorities have not released any information on the Covid variant that affected the Firozabad resident or whether he had any comorbidities. He was in isolation in the hospital's Covid-19 ward.
Earlier this week, Dr P V M Lakshmi, professor at the School of Public Health at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, had stated that the recent rise in infections in various states does not indicate a completely new variant, adding that mutations are a normal process. This virus is from the JN.1 lineage, as per the doctor, and it is difficult to say how severe it is at this stage.
Dr Lakshmi advised that vulnerable groups like young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals must be cautious. People experiencing symptoms like difficulty in breathing, persistent cough, cold with fever, or high fever lasting more than four to five days should seek immediate medical attention. Precautions can also be taken, like washing hands and wearing a mask in crowded places.
The Delhi Government had recently issued an advisory stating that hospitals should ensure preparedness in case Covid-19 cases increase. This includes checking the availability of beds, oxygen, and essential medicines. Those who test positive should isolate themselves from high-risk groups until symptoms are completely resolved. They must also monitor their health — if the fever doesn't come down or breathing becomes difficult, they should visit a hospital immediately.
Currently, mass testing for Covid-19 is not being carried out, but experts say there is no need to panic. The administration of the Government Medical College and Hospital in Chandigarh inspected isolation wards and ensured preparedness on Tuesday.
The administration of the Government Multi-Specialty Hospital in Sector 16 stated that all necessary supplies are already in stock. Dr Suman Singh, director, Health Services, confirmed that all essential resources are available. 'There is no need to panic. We are closely monitoring the situation and will plan further action if needed,' she added.
