Punjab has reported nine COVID-19 cases since January 2025, with one death recorded on Wednesday, but health authorities have asserted that the situation remains under control, with no cause for panic. The deceased, a Ludhiana resident suffering from chronic liver disease and Hepatitis B, succumbed to comorbid conditions while under treatment at Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32, Chandigarh, officials confirmed.   Despite the unfortunate demise, the State Health Department has reiterated that the current COVID-19 scenario is not alarming. The state Health Secretary Kumar Rahul on Wednesday said that five of the nine cases have already recovered, two belonged to Haryana, and the only remaining active case, from Mohali, is presently normal and asymptomatic.   The patient who was admitted to Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector-32, Chandigarh, was a known case of Hepatitis B with chronic liver disease. Unfortunately, the patient passed away. As per the treating doctors, the cause of death was mainly due to his existing co-morbid conditions, clarified Kumar, urging people and media alike to avoid panic and misinformation.   To underline the governments proactive approach, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Wednesday conducted surprise inspections at Rajindra Hospital and Mata Kaushalya Hospital in Patiala. Emphasizing that the State is battle-ready to tackle any potential uptick in infections, Dr Balbir said: We have ensured robust arrangements for testing, medication, isolation wards, ICU facilities, oxygen plants, and trained health personnel in advance. There is no reason to worry.   At Rajindra Hospital, the Minister reviewed COVID-specific preparedness, including 40 dedicated emergency beds at the super-specialty wing; well-stocked medicines and medical equipment; trained medical staff and isolation units; a three-layered oxygen supply system comprising liquid oxygen tanks, PSA plants, and multi-cylinder setups; 130 additional beds in the general emergency ward, among other things.   He also reminded citizens that COVID, like any enemy of health, must be taken seriously but rationally. We must remain vigilant but not fearful, he urged.   The Health Secretary maintained that the Health Department is continuously coordinating closely with the Union Government and is following all latest advisories and surveillance protocols.   The current COVID-19 situation in Punjab is not alarming and there is no reason to panic. The Department of Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, is closely monitoring the situation and regularly in touch with the Government of India for any further updates or guidelines, said Kumar Rahul, adding that Punjab is adequately prepared to deal with the situation.

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