Sindh loses first medical worker in coronavirus battle

KARACHI: Senior doctor Dr. Abdul Qadir Soomro has become the first doctor in Sindh and second in the country to succumb to the deadly coronavirus.

Dr. Abdul Qadir Soomro was tested positive for coronavirus earlier last week and put on a ventilator several days ago after his condition deteriorated.

According to details, Dr. Abdul Qadir Soomro – aged 64 – passed away in an isolation centre in Indus Hospital Karachi. Reports informed that he was actively involved in treating people until a day before he fell ill.

Relevant sources claimed that the death of the doctor has fanned concerns among health professionals who have been constantly demanding steps for their protection.

Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA) Karachi President Dr. Azeemuddin informed that Dr. Abdul Qadir contracted the virus while treating patients in Gulshan-e-Hadeed locality of the city.

Dr. Azeemuddin also informed that when Dr. Soomro’s condition deteriorated, he approached the Indus Hospital Karachi where he tested positive for the viral ailment and was admitted to the isolation ward.

Dr. Azeemuddin said, “During the treatment in Indus hospital, his condition deteriorated further and he was put on a ventilator, but despite the prayers of his loved ones, he expired.”

In this regard, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed grief over Dr. Soomro’s death and said, “Doctors are the first line of defence in facing coronavirus pandemic.”

Sindh Minister Saeed Ghani also expressed sorrow on the death of Dr. Soomro and said that he is an addition to the list of heroes in the recent pandemic war.