A tragic incident unfolded in West Bengal, where a 25-year-old nurse, recovering from a Nipah virus infection, passed away due to cardiac arrest. The nurse died on Thursday at a private facility in Barasat, located in the North 24 Parganas district.
Circumstances Surrounding the Nurse’s Death
The young nurse had been taken off ventilator support at the end of January, as her condition had stabilized. Despite her recovery from the Nipah virus, she faced multiple health complications that ultimately led to her demise. According to a health department official, she suffered a cardiac arrest around 4:20 PM.
Details of the Nurse’s Health Struggles
- Age: 25 years old
- Location: Barasat, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal
- Initial Illness: Contracted Nipah virus in early January
- Previous Conditions: Prolonged coma leading to weakened immunity
- Additional Infections: Developed a lung infection and a hospital-acquired infection
The nurse, a resident of Katwa in the Purba Bardhaman district, initially fell ill after returning home for the New Year holidays on December 31. Her first hospital admission was at Burdwan Medical College and Hospital before she was transferred to the private facility where she ultimately passed away.
Impact of the Nipah Virus in West Bengal
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare workers dealing with the Nipah virus. The nurse was one of two health workers in West Bengal to test positive for the virus earlier this year. The other individual, a male nurse, managed to recover and has since returned home.
The tragic loss underscores the importance of monitoring and supporting healthcare professionals who endure the effects of severe viral infections. Efforts to improve hospital protocols and infection control measures may help prevent similar fates in the future.
