State government to confirm around 11.30 PM if the child in Jorhat is positive: Himanta

March 21: Social media is replete about the news of a 4.5 years old girl being the first known positive case of coronavirus in the state of Assam. She was tested positive after her samples were tested at Jorhat Medical College and Hospital (JMCH). However, her sample was again sent to ICMR laboratory Lahowal for rechecking. Speaking to media on Saturday night, State Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “At this moment, I cannot tell you anything. Her reports were sent for recheck. I will be able to say anything only around 11.30 PM tonight.” However, another source said that only by Sunday the reports will be available.

The supposed victim, is a 4.5 years old girl who came from Bihar along with her mother and sister from Jorhat on 19 March. The girl was brought to JMCH on 20 March and exhibited symptoms akin to COVID-19. Her sample is learnt to have tested positive at Jorhat. However, now as her sample has been sent for test again, the final result can only be known once the reports come from the laboratory.

The child and her family members are kept in isolation ward in JMCH. The lady went with her two children to her parents house in Bihar. On returning by train, the small child developed symptoms of COVID-19. As because this is the 1st suspected case of coronavirus, so the government wants to be extra sure. That is why the samples of the child has been sent to test again in another laboratory.

As per reports, the Deputy Commissioner of Jorhat shared this information with the media on Saturday evening. Extra cautious steps were adopted by the JMCH authorities. Though the DC Jorhat sent a message about positive case of infection but till now neither the Principal, nor the Superintendent of Jorhat Medical College gave any public statement in this regard. It’s now only wait for official announcement by Himanta Biswa Sarma or any other officials.

Patients in the Jorhat Medical College alleged that there was no facility of screening available there. Many entered the JMCH premises from Bihar and other states without being screened. This has led to a tensed situation as the deadly virus can spread too fast if those infected comes in contact with others.

UPDATE: Though the minister was supposed to confirm at 11.30 PM tonight, but it is midnight now and statement has yet been issued.