Health authorities in Visakhapatnam have addressed public concerns following the recent death of a 64-year-old man who had tested positive for COVID-19. Officials clarified that the primary cause of death was not COVID-19 itself but underlying health complications.

The deceased, who had multiple pre-existing conditions including diabetes and cardiac issues, had been admitted to a private hospital after showing symptoms related to his chronic ailments. A routine COVID-19 test came back positive, but medical experts confirmed that the infection was not the critical factor leading to his demise.

The clarification comes amidst heightened public sensitivity and fear, following social media reports that prematurely linked the case to a COVID-19 resurgence. Officials emphasized that this should not be interpreted as a new wave of the virus and urged citizens not to panic.

Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a senior official from the Health Department, stated, “We want to reassure the public that this incident does not indicate a renewed threat. The patient had serious existing health problems that were the main cause of death. COVID-19 was only an incidental finding.”

Authorities continue to monitor health data in the city and are urging residents to follow general hygiene practices but reiterated that there is no need for alarm or speculation regarding COVID-19 outbreaks at this time.