By Silvester D’Souza

Daijiworld Media Network—Kundapur (EP)

Kundapur, Mar 3: The death of an H1N1 victim, the first in the taluk, has caused anxiety among the locals.

Bikba Hasina (35), wife of Shirur Harinakone resident Fazul, is so far the lone fatality of the disease in the taluk. Hasina had gone to Kumta for a wedding on Sunday February 22. She fell sick there and was admitted to Amita Hospital in Bhatkal as her sickness turned serious.

The doctors who examined her there said that there were symptoms of H1N1 and suggested that she be admitted to Mangaluru Wenlock Hospital. However, her family had her admitted in Mangaluru’s A J Hospital.

She was treated there but died on Monday March 2 at 4.30 am without responding to treatment. The department of health also has confirmed her death. Her husband is a fisherman and she leaves behind two children. Her death has caused fear in Udupi district and it is necessary that the department of health act swiftly.

“It is essential to maintain cleanliness in and around the house. The department of health is creating awareness among the people about this. It is suggested that illegal piggery farms be raided to take precautions,” said Ajay Bhandarkar, junior health official, Kundapur taluk.