Fear in Vasco after fourth death

Vasco: Vasco is facing an alarming situation with residents living in fear following a rise in the COVID positive cases and death of a 50-year-old New Vaddem resident on Thursday, making it the fourth COVID death from the port town. The deceased, who was a taxi operator, died of the infection in the wee hours. The earlier three COVID deaths were from Khariwada.

According to sources, the 50-year-old man, who died of COVID infection on Thursday was referred to the Sub-district Hospital at Chicalim on Wednesday evening after he complained of breathlessness. He was also suffering from a fever. However, he had preferred to stay at home initially.

Following a test conducted on him, he was referred to the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) at Bambolim where he succumbed to the infection around 3 am on Thursday, said a GMC doctor.

According to sources, the man was laid to rest in the evening in the presence of a few of his family members and friends. Deputy Collector and sub-divisional magistrate, Mormugao, Sachin Dessai coordinated with the GMC team and the burial was held as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Home Affairs by maintaining social distancing.

Meanwhile, the COVID positive cases in Mormugao taluka are nearing the 700-mark.