A 40-year-old man from Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, who had tested positive for COVID-19, passed away early Wednesday at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, Chandigarh. The patient had been referred from Ludhiana and was under isolation in the hospital’s COVID-19 ward. This marks the first confirmed COVID-related death in Chandigarh during the recent uptick in cases. One case was also recently reported from Mohali.
Authorities have not yet released details on the specific variant involved in this case or whether the patient had any underlying health conditions.
Earlier, Dr. P.V.M. Lakshmi, professor at PGIMER’s School of Public Health, commented on the current rise in infections across several states. She clarified that these do not appear to be due to a completely new variant, but are part of the natural mutation process. The virus, she said, belongs to the JN.1 lineage, and it is still unclear how severe this strain is.
Dr. Lakshmi advised caution, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. She recommended that anyone experiencing symptoms like difficulty breathing, persistent cough, or high fever lasting over four days seek immediate medical attention. Simple precautions like hand hygiene and mask usage in crowded areas remain effective.
In response to the recent developments, the Delhi government recently issued an advisory for hospitals to ensure readiness in case of a surge. This includes verifying the availability of hospital beds, oxygen supplies, and critical medications. COVID-positive individuals are urged to isolate themselves from high-risk groups until fully recovered, and seek hospital care if symptoms worsen.
Although mass COVID testing is currently not underway, experts stress that there is no cause for panic. Authorities at GMCH Chandigarh have inspected isolation wards and confirmed that preparations are in place. Similarly, the Government Multi-Specialty Hospital in Sector 16 has confirmed that it is fully stocked with essential supplies.
Dr. Suman Singh, Director of Health Services, assured the public: “There is no need to panic. We are closely monitoring the situation and will take appropriate action if necessary.”
