Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a public advisory following the deaths of two COVID-positive patients at King Edward Memorial (K.E.M.) Hospital. A 14-year-old girl and a 54-year-old woman passed away recently, raising concerns among the public.
However, hospital experts clarified that the deaths were caused by severe underlying health conditions—nephrotic syndrome with hypocalcemic seizures and cancer—and not by COVID-19 itself. Both patients were residents of Sindhudurg and Dombivli, outside Mumbai city limits.
While COVID-19 cases have shown a slight increase in May, the BMC emphasized that the virus is now endemic, with sporadic cases appearing in the city. From January to April 2025, Mumbai recorded very few cases, and the current situation remains under control.
The BMC has reassured citizens that municipal hospitals are equipped and ready to manage any potential surge, urging the public to remain calm and continue following safety protocols.
BMC’s Preparedness and Public Advisory
To ensure readiness, the BMC has set up special wards and critical care units:
Seven Hills Hospital: 20 MICU beds, 20 beds for children and pregnant women, and 60 general beds.
Kasturba Hospital: 2 ICU beds and a 10-bed ward, with scope for expansion if required.
Citizens are urged to follow basic preventive measures:
Wear masks in public when symptomatic,
- Wear masks in public when symptomatic,
- Maintain social distancing,
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water,
- Eat a healthy diet and rest adequately.
- Recognizing Symptoms
- Common COVID-19 symptoms include:
- Fever, Cough (dry or with phlegm), Sore throat, Fatigue, Body aches and Headache
- Some may experience a runny nose or loss of taste/smell. Difficulty breathing is a serious sign and warrants immediate medical attention.
The BMC advises against self-medication and recommends visiting a municipal clinic, hospital, or consulting a family doctor upon noticing any symptoms. “Mumbai is prepared and alert. Citizens should remain informed, cautious, and seek timely medical help,” a senior BMC official stated.
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