Late paediatrician Dr Chatterdeo tested positive for COVID-19 – family

The family of renowned paediatrician Dr Seepersaud Chatterdeo, who died last Sunday, has disclosed that he had the novel coronavirus.

In a statement on Friday night, the family said, “We recently learnt that a post-mortem swab was positive for COVID-19. The relevant authorities have embarked on contact tracing but in the circumstances, we are urging that all who may have been in contact with him over the past two (2) weeks to be vigilant and observe the recommended guideline-directed behaviour such as social distancing, hand washing and wearing of masks.”
They called on persons who may have come into recent contact with Dr Chatterdeo to be vigilant for COVID-19 signs and symptoms. These would include fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of smell and taste, excessive tiredness, sore throat, diarrhoea, body aches and pains.
The family of the late paediatrician further urged that persons with concerns or any of these symptoms to seek medical attention.
Nevertheless, they went on to express “deepest gratitude for the appreciation and love directed towards him and for the outpouring of support extended to us during this most difficult time.”
Dr Chatterdeo died on Sunday morning after being rushed to the Balwant Singh Hospital. He was regarded as a leading paediatrician in the country.
In recognising his work, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony noted that Chatterdeo was a teacher to several medical students and interns. He also dedicated his life to the profession.
“He dedicated his young life to ensuring his students had all his attention and benefited from his knowledge and experience. He treated his students as his sisters and brothers. Dr Chatterdeo also contributed immensely to the continuing medical education programme for practising physicians in Guyana,” the Minister said.
Dr Anthony contended that Guyana has lost a valuable citizen, who would be difficult to replace.
“Just as families spoke of their great admiration for his professionalism and expertise, they also spoke of his gentleness, generosity and kindness. The families that he served over the years attest to his caring predisposition and even though they might have come from far distances to see him, he made them all feel like family…The Ministry asked that our prayers and support be extended to his family at this most difficult time in their lives,” the Minister added.
Dr Chatterdeo started his career as a pharmacist and later pursued medicine at the University of Guyana. He later pursued a Master of Medicine, specialising in paediatrics, at the university. He also served as a tutor and assistant professor. (G8)