In a concerning incident, Ryszard Holowenko, a 75-year-old man from Ireland, was found deceased in his room at a Fort Kochi homestay on Sunday, November 24. Holowenko, who was visiting India, is suspected to have died due to complications from dengue fever, a concerning health issue in the region.
The elderly tourist had been feeling unwell and sought medical help at the Fort Kochi Government Hospital last Friday. His health worsened despite testing positive for dengue the following day. Although his platelet count was reported to be within normal ranges, he was advised to consume nutritious foods and medications to combat the virus.
Tragically, the homestay operator noticed that Holowenko’s room remained closed throughout Sunday. Alarmed, he contacted Antony Kureethara, the local Opposition Leader and councillor, prompting an immediate police response. Upon entering the room, authorities discovered Holowenko’s lifeless body.
The news of his death was swiftly relayed to his son and the Irish embassy. Preparations are underway to conduct a thorough death audit at Ernakulam General Hospital to determine the precise cause of Holowenko’s death. This incident has sparked increased vigilance in the area concerning the spread of dengue fever.