Has Bengaluru Witnessed Its First Covid-19 Death?
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Synopsis
Bengaluru has recorded its first Covid-19 death as active cases rise in Karnataka. With health officials monitoring the situation, the community is urged to remain vigilant without panic. This report provides an update on the current Covid-19 scenario in Bengaluru and the state's response to the outbreak.
Key Takeaways
- Bengaluru has reported its first Covid-19 death.
- Total active cases in Karnataka stand at 38.
- Health officials recommend vigilance but no panic.
- Testing is increasing across the state.
- Precautions are advised for vulnerable populations.
Bengaluru, May 24 (NationPress) - The city has recorded its first Covid-19 death on Saturday amid the recent wave, as per an official announcement from the Karnataka Health Department.
According to the Health Department, 108 individuals underwent testing for Covid-19 in the past 24 hours, with five results returning positive.
One individual has been discharged from medical care, leaving the total number of active cases at 38.
Out of these active cases, 32 are reported from Bengaluru.
In the last 24 hours, a total of 92 individuals were tested, with two confirmed positive cases, as detailed in the report.
Active cases have also been identified in districts including Ballari, Bengaluru Rural, Mangaluru, and Vijayanagar, with one case each, while Mysuru has reported two active cases, according to the findings.
Health department sources indicated that the deceased was an 85-year-old male.
Additionally, a woman returning from Mumbai has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently in home quarantine.
In Belagavi, a pregnant woman who traveled to Pune last month has also tested positive.
Several district hospitals, including those in Dharwad, have established a dedicated 10-bed ICU ward specifically for Covid-19 patients.
The technical advisory committee has recommended that the Health Department initiate Covid-19 testing in eight medical colleges starting Sunday across Karnataka, as confirmed by sources.
In light of the recent uptick in Covid-19 cases in Karnataka, State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao remarked that while there is a minor increase in cases in the state and in Bengaluru, there is no reason for alarm.
During a media interaction in Bengaluru on Saturday, Minister Rao stated, "There is no cause for concern. This is a typical scenario. A slight rise in Covid-19 cases has been noted over the past 15 days."
He further mentioned that the state's technical advisory committee convened recently to evaluate the situation.
"We have advised that those with severe respiratory conditions, especially those hospitalized, should be tested for Covid-19," he added.
He also recommended that individuals on immunosuppressive medications, those with low immunity, expectant mothers, and children exercise caution in crowded environments, ideally wearing masks to prevent not only Covid-19 but other viral and bacterial infections. However, mask-wearing is not mandatory, and there are no travel restrictions within the city or state.
Minister Rao emphasized that life can proceed normally without fear.
"Life, work, and daily activities are all proceeding as usual. To date, 257 cases have been reported nationwide, and importantly, none have exhibited severe symptoms, only mild ones. Hence, there is no need for panic. My message to the public is that Covid-19 has become endemic. The virus is now part of our environment, similar to other viruses. At any point, someone may contract Covid-19. The key concern is whether a new or more severe variant appears," he elaborated.
The Minister stated that Covid-19 tests are obligatory solely for Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases.
"Otherwise, standard protocols apply: maintain cleanliness, uphold hygiene. These practices are beneficial not just for Covid-19 but also for preventing various other illnesses," he concluded.
The Karnataka Health Department issued an advisory on Friday, noting a gradual increase in Covid-19 cases in Bengaluru over the past 20 days.
Point of View
We prioritize presenting facts with clarity and impartiality. The recent rise in Covid-19 cases in Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru, requires community awareness and adherence to health guidelines. Our aim is to keep citizens informed while emphasizing that there is no immediate cause for panic, allowing for informed decisions in these times.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the first Covid-19 death in Bengaluru?
The first Covid-19 death in Bengaluru was reported as part of the recent outbreak, involving an 85-year-old man.
How many active Covid-19 cases are currently in Karnataka?
As of now, there are 38 active Covid-19 cases in Karnataka, with a majority reported from Bengaluru.
Are there any travel restrictions in Karnataka due to Covid-19?
Currently, there are no travel bans or movement restrictions within Bengaluru or across Karnataka.
What precautions should vulnerable individuals take?
Individuals on immunosuppressant drugs, pregnant women, and those with low immunity should be cautious in crowded areas and consider wearing masks.
Is Covid-19 testing mandatory in Karnataka?
Covid-19 testing is mandatory for Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases; otherwise, standard health guidelines apply.
