Mayhem in May: Over 50% elderly among virus victims in Amritsar district

Manmeet Gill

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, May 16

More than 50 per cent fatalities (255 Covid-19 related deaths) reported in the first fortnight of May included senior citizens.

Of the deceased, 137 were above 60 years. The district authorities reported 58 deaths in the age group between 50 years and 60 years, followed by 38 in the age group of 40-50 years.

The authorities reported 15 casualties among 30-40 years and five deaths in the age group between 20 and 30 years. The district witnessed only one death in patients below 20 years age group.

Of the six deaths reported below 30-year-old patients (five in 20 years-30 years age group and one below 20 years), five were reported after May 10. The increasing casualties among youngsters has become a major cause for concern. In the first 10 days of May, the district had reported only one death in this category.

Medical experts said infection among younger population was on the rise. “While senior citizens are at a greater risk due to old age and co-morbid conditions, infection can also prove lethal for younger population. Earlier, it was believed that elders are more vulnerable than youngsters,” said a health official.

Officials said youngsters and senior citizens should take care of their health and follow safety protocols.

Recently, the district authorities also started vaccination for beneficiaries with co-morbidities in the age group of 18-44 years. A total of 1,673 persons in the category have been administered the first dose so far.