Karnataka Reports First Death after Recent Covid Surge, Bengaluru Resident Succumbs to Infection

Digital Desk: Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated on Wednesday that the first coronavirus fatality was recorded from Bengaluru on December 15. However, according to the Minister, no decision has been made to restrict New Year's celebrations in the capital. A 64-year-old man passed away at Bengaluru's Mallige Hospital, the Union Minister informed the media. 

The Minister stated that the Chamarajpet resident, who had comorbidities, passed away on December 15.

The patient allegedly suffered from several comorbidities, although it was unclear if the JN.1 Covid variation harmed him.

Minister Rao said, "The patient was diagnosed with COVID-19, and he was suffering from heart issues, TB, BP, lung disease, and multiple complications," according to an IANS report.

The Minister stated that no decision had been made up to this point to limit Bengaluru's New Year's celebration. 

"After assessing the situation over the next several days, guidelines will be released. No guidelines have been released by the national government in this respect. "Let us wait," he said. 

The Minister claimed that although the new variation is not fatal, it spreads more quickly than Omicron. 

He announced plans to increase testing nationwide and to shortly release advice to monitor instances of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI).

"The virus is reportedly impacting 36 nations, according to the federal authorities. They have to keep an eye on the supply of oxygen and isolation as well," he stated.

"We are asking the national government for assistance since ventilator management comes at a significant expense. The minister from Kerala has also spoken about this matter. Thursday is the day for a meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. It has been directed that the Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) put isolation measures in place. "There's no reason to be alarmed," Minister Rao explained.