STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The sudden death of Dr Jahan Iqbal Ahmed — Associate Professor of GMCH and COVID-19 patient — on Monday, should be an eye-opener for all people in general and particularly those people who opt to stay at home after he or she gets infected with coronavirus, said State Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma here.
He told the media, "Though the Associate Professor was suffering from fever yet he chose to remain at his home. Moreover, he didn't inform us. He suddenly developed cardiac problems on Monday morning. He was then rushed to GNRC Hospital at Six Mile here, where he breathed his last. After his death, his swab testing was carried out; the result was COVID-19 positive.
"This instance amply indicates that even a GMCH (Gauhati Medical College Hospital) doctor failed to tackle the virus. So, I feel that all COVID-affected patients should learn from this case."
He added, "Recently, the pandemic has taken a very critical and dangerous turn in Assam with two youth of around 33 years succumbing to the infection. Hence, all people suffering from fever, cough, and loss of smell must voluntarily come forward for the COVID-19 test."
Meanwhile, Health department sources informed that there are many corona-positive patients in serious condition in the GMCH. While 40 are in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit), another 30 are in critical condition in the hospital. It has also been learnt that eight corona-affected patients in the age group of 30 to 40 years have died across the State. The youngest corona patient to die in Assam till date is a 19-year-old girl.