Karnataka witnessed its initial Covid-19 death of 2025 on Saturday, triggering heightened alert across the state. An 85-year-old male, previously hospitalized in Whitefield due to respiratory distress and multiple organ dysfunction, passed away on May 17. According to health and family welfare department sources, a Covid-19 test later confirmed his infection.
In Thane, a 21-year-old man diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis also tested positive for Covid-19 prior to his demise. However, authorities emphasized that the metabolic condition—not the virus—was the primary cause. He marked the fourth Covid-positive fatality in Greater Mumbai within a week, though all had underlying complications.
Over the past ten days, Covid infections have shown an upward trend. Despite this, medical professionals assure the public that the symptoms remain generally mild. Karnataka logged 35 new Covid cases this week—32 of which were reported from Bengaluru alone.
As a precaution, the state has reinforced testing protocols, mandating Covid-19 screening for individuals showing respiratory symptoms and for all SARI cases. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao directed officials to ensure a month’s supply of test kits, with 5,000 RT-PCR kits now stocked in government hospitals.
Hospitals have also been instructed to test patients exhibiting cardiac or respiratory issues. Nationwide, a total of 257 infections have been recorded so far. Most patients displayed only mild signs, and there were no reports of serious illness.
The minister urged high-risk groups like pregnant women and new mothers to wear masks in crowded places, while encouraging hygiene and hand sanitiser use. He reiterated: no restrictions are needed, and the situation remains stable.
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