29 MAY 2025 FACTRECORDER
First COVID D*eath in Chandigarh Amid Recent Surge: 39-Year-Old Man from Firozabad D*ies at GMCH
A 39-year-old man from Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, who was living in Samrala, Ludhiana, passed away due to COVID-19 at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, Chandigarh. He had been referred from a hospital in Ludhiana on Monday after being admitted there on May 23 with fever and breathing difficulties. His condition deteriorated rapidly, and he was diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia.
The patient tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday and was immediately shifted to the isolation ICU and placed on a ventilator. Unfortunately, he succumbed to severe respiratory distress around 4 a.m. on Wednesday. He was also suffering from Hepatitis B.
This marks the first COVID-related fatality in Chandigarh during the recent rise in cases. However, since the patient was a resident of Punjab, the death will be counted in Punjab’s records. Authorities stated that the deceased had no known local contacts in Chandigarh, minimizing the risk of community transmission. His body was handed over to his family following standard COVID protocols.
Doctors at GMCH noted that it is yet to be confirmed whether the new JN.1 variant contributed to his death. Health experts emphasized there is no cause for panic, but assured that the situation is under close observation. Hospitals across Chandigarh, including PGIMER and GMSH, have reviewed their COVID facilities and confirmed they are well-prepared to manage cases. A 10-bed isolation ward with oxygen and ventilator support is also operational.
Medical experts urged the public to continue following COVID-appropriate behavior — wearing masks in crowded places, reporting symptoms early, avoiding self-medication, and taking special care of the elderly and immunocompromised.
While COVID-19 cases are gradually increasing in Punjab and Haryana, doctors have clarified that there is no indication of a new, more dangerous variant at this time. This case, however, serves as a reminder for continued vigilance.
