Kadapa reports first COVID-19 death in four years, three test positive

Kadapa district reported a death due to COVID-19 after four years. The patient, identified as a 43-year-old man from Kadapa city, succumbed to the virus while undergoing treatment at the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) on July 7 (Tuesday), where he was admitted with a severe lung infection. However, officials characterised it as a stray case with extreme co-morbid conditions and appealed to the public not to panic.

According to information, three of the deceased person’s primary contacts also tested positive, who have been advised home isolation.

It may be recalled that a person from Rajampeta (also in Kadapa district), who had diabetes and a kidney-related disorder, was admitted for treatment at CMC Vellore (Tamil Nadu) a fortnight ago and unfortunately passed away while undergoing treatment.

The State Medical and Health Department is reportedly undecided about whether to urge the public to wear masks in public places and maintain social distancing, a norm followed during the COVID-19 pandemic. An official statement is expected after a policy decision is made on this front, sources said.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Y.S. Sharmila Reddy, who hails from Kadapa district, expressed concern about the situation. She phoned the District Collector to inquire about the nature of the viral spread and the preparedness of the district medical and health staff.

While appealing to the State government to handle the situation with due seriousness, Ms. Sharmila also called upon all stakeholders in the political spectrum to join hands, irrespective of their political affiliations, to tackle the menace.