A 60-year-old man died due to COVID19 here while 72 new cases of the disease were reported from the district on Thursday.
An official said with another death, the toll has now gone to 14 while the 72 cases were the highest single-day spike in the district so far.
“The deceased was a trader from Tehsil mohalla and had developed some health issues on Wednesday following which he was taken to Rajouri hospital where he tested positive for COVID19 and was shifted to isolation ward,” said the official.
He said the patient was symptomatic and was put on life support system, but his health condition deteriorated following which he was referred to GMC Jammu in the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday. But, he died on way to the hospital, said the official. He said report of another young man who died four days ago has come positive for COVID19.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Sher Singh said district was witnessing spike in daily cases. He said eight family members of the trader who died today have also tested positive for coronavirus.
Amid the rise in corona cases, the district magistrate Rajouri, Muhammad Nazir Sheikh declared three more areas, Barmandal, Thandikassi, and Irwan Khanetar as contaminant zones today.
“There shall remain complete restrictions as per SOPs in all these areas and market shall also remain close.” He said in an order. The officers concerned have been directed to ensure supply of basic amenities in the contaminant zones.
Meanwhile, 78 new COVID cases were reported from Poonch district including eighteen employees of Municipal Council Poonch and nine persons from District Police complex.
Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Rahul Yadav said 78 cases were the highest single-day spike recorded in the district so far. “We appeal to people from all walks of life to adhere to the COVID19 SOPs,” the DC said.
Senior Superintendent of Police, Poonch, Ramesh Angral said that nine person who tested positive include a Sub Inspector posted at District Police Office complex and others.
“Their contacts are being traced. General public is informed not to visit the SSP office for few days and contact over phone in case of any urgency,” the SSP said.