Vasai: A 42-year-old resident of Naigaon in Vasai, reportedly succumbed to suspected Covid-19 complications, marking the first such fatality in the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) limits.

The Naigaon resident was unwell for several days and was admitted to Raheja Hospital in Mumbai after showing symptoms resembling Covid-19. Despite medical intervention, he passed away on May 31. The mortal remains were consigned to flames in Mumbai itself, in line with safety protocols.

The death due to suspected Covid has reignited public anxiety across the Vasai-Virar region. Medical experts emphasize that even mild symptoms should not be ignored. They have urged citizens to continue following preventive measures, including mask usage, hand hygiene, and social distancing.

VVCMC has intensified health surveillance across the region. Over the past two days, more than 4,000 residents have been screened as part of a renewed health campaign. The corporation has also started collecting data from both government and private hospitals regarding patients exhibiting COVID-like symptoms.

To handle any potential spike in infections, the VVCMC has equipped hospitals with isolation wards. A total of 50 isolation beds have been arranged—25 each at Jeevdani Hospital in Chandansar and Fatherwadi Hospital in Vasai East. Additionally, five oxygen plants have been kept operational to ensure an uninterrupted oxygen supply during emergencies.