Goa recorded its first swine flu death late Monday after a 45-year-old patient died in a South Goa hospital, a top state medical official said Tuesday.
Speaking to IANS, nodal epidemiologist Utkarsh Betodkar said that the patient had arrived in Goa from Hong Kong a couple of weeks back and was in a critical condition.
"He was in a critical condition when he came to Goa. Four others who were showing similar symptoms have been treated and discharged," Betodkar said.
The epidemiologist said that all persons in contact with the man, like his relatives and treating doctors, have been given instructions as well as the required medication in case they showed symptoms of flu.
"The state Directorate of Health Services is well stocked with medicines required to treat swine flu. There should be no cause for panic," Betodkar said.