Karnataka Reports First Death After Recent Covid Surge, Bengaluru Resident Succumbs To Infection

The person, who had comorbidities, is a resident of Chamarajpet and died on December 15, the Minister said.

However, it was not known whether the patient was affected by the JN.1 Covid variant ( Image Source :Getty )

The first coronavirus death was reported from Bengaluru on December 15, said Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Wednesday. The Minister, however, said there was no decision taken to impose New Year celebrations restrictions in the capital. Addressing the reporters, Union Minister said, a 64-year-old male died at Mallige Hospital in Bengaluru. 

The person, who had comorbidities, is a resident of Chamarajpet and died on December 15, the Minister said.

However, it was not known whether he was affected by the JN.1 Covid variant but the patient reportedly had multiple comorbidities.

“The patient was diagnosed with COVID-19, and he was suffering from heart issues, TB, BP, and lung disease and multiple complications,” Minister Rao stated, as per a report on IANS.

Till now, the Minister said, there was no decision to restrict the New Year celebration in Bengaluru. 

"Guidelines will be issued after monitoring the situation in the coming days. The central government has not issued any guidelines in this regard. Let’s wait,” he said. 

The Minister said that the new variant spreads faster like Omicron but it was not lethal. 

He said that they were conducting a higher number of tests in the country and they would soon issue an advisory to track Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases.

"According to the central government, the virus is affecting 36 countries. They have been directed to monitor oxygen supply and also isolation monitoring,” he stated.

"The cost associated with ventilator management is substantial, and we are seeking support from the central government. The Kerala minister has also addressed this issue. A meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is scheduled for Thursday. The Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has been instructed to implement isolation measures. There is no cause for alarm," clarified Minister Rao.