Kadapa: Andhra Pradesh’s Kadapa district has reported two COVID-19-related deaths and four new infections, marking the district’s first fatalities linked to the virus in four years. The development has prompted health authorities to step up surveillance while assuring the public that the situation remains under close watch.
According to health officials, the four infections were confirmed through RT-PCR tests conducted at the Kadapa virology laboratory.
Four fresh cases detected
Health officials said three of the infected individuals are either asymptomatic or have mild symptoms and have been advised to remain in home isolation.
The fourth patient, who developed mild respiratory symptoms, has been admitted to a dedicated COVID-19 ward at a local hospital for observation and treatment.
Officials said the patients belong to different localities across Kadapa district.
Two COVID-19-related deaths reported
The district also recorded two COVID-19-related fatalities involving patients with underlying medical conditions.
The first was a 60-year-old patient who died on June 28 while undergoing treatment at CMC Vellore after being referred from SVIMS, Tirupati. An RT-PCR test subsequently confirmed COVID-19 infection.
The second fatality involved a 43-year-old patient who also tested positive for COVID-19 and died during treatment.
Health authorities said both patients had complex medical conditions, which increased their risk of severe illness.
Vaccinated individuals among those infected
According to officials, all four individuals who tested positive had previously received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.
One of the patients had also received a booster dose.
Health experts noted that while vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation and death, breakthrough infections can still occur.
People with chronic illnesses remain at higher risk
Medical experts have reiterated that although COVID-19 is generally causing milder illness in many people compared with the peak of the pandemic, individuals with underlying health conditions remain vulnerable to serious complications.
Higher-risk groups include people with:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Chronic lung disease
- Kidney disorders
- Obesity
- Weakened immune systems
- Cancer
Doctors also cautioned that respiratory infections can become more severe among patients with pre-existing lung conditions, making early diagnosis and timely medical care important.
Authorities urge public not to panic
State health authorities have urged residents to remain calm, stating that there is no evidence of widespread community transmission associated with the reported cases.
Officials said they are closely monitoring the local situation and may recommend preventive measures, including wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, maintaining physical distance where appropriate and encouraging vulnerable individuals to take additional precautions if necessary.
They clarified that these are precautionary public health measures and do not indicate a return to pandemic-era restrictions.
Health experts advise continued precautions
Public health experts continue to recommend simple preventive measures to reduce the spread of respiratory infections, including:
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitisers.
- Wearing a mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms or while visiting crowded indoor places.
- Staying home if experiencing fever, cough, sore throat or other flu-like symptoms.
- Covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- Ensuring adequate ventilation in indoor spaces.
- Seeking prompt medical advice if symptoms worsen, especially for older adults and people with chronic illnesses.
Officials emphasised that while isolated COVID-19 cases continue to occur, the public should remain vigilant, follow official health advisories and avoid unnecessary panic.
