Title: Tragic Death of 14-Year-Old Singaporean Athlete Not Linked to COVID-19 Vaccination, Says Health Ministry
The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore has dismissed speculations that the tragic death of a 14-year-old Indian-origin student at a premier Singapore Sports School is related to COVID-19 vaccination. This statement was made in response to rumors circulating in the media. The ministry has called these claims untrue and irresponsible.
Secondary 2 student-athlete, Pranav Madhaik, tragically passed away on Wednesday after feeling unwell during a 400m fitness time trial on October 5. The cause of death has been determined as cardiac arrest with a congenital malformation of coronary vessels as an antecedent cause, according to the school’s recent announcement.
The MOH clarified that Pranav had received his last dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine more than 18 months ago, as per their vaccination records. The ministry emphasized that for individuals who are unvaccinated, the risk of severe illness from a COVID-19 infection far outweighs any potential risks associated with vaccination.
According to a press statement released by the Singapore Sports School, Pranav had informed his badminton coach about feeling unwell after completing the 400m fitness time trial at approximately 6:26 pm on October 5. The coach advised him to rest, and Pranav complied, resting beside the starting point of the track while the coach checked the time-trial data on his phone.
Unfortunately, the coach unknowingly left the track to brief other students about competition matters, unintentionally leaving Pranav unattended. After the briefing, the coach departed from the school premises without realizing that Pranav was still resting at the same spot. During this time, Pranav interacted with two other groups of students before a track and field coach noticed his condition. The coach provided water, but it became evident that Pranav was having difficulty getting up, even with assistance.
Emergency services were called, and Pranav’s parents were informed. The badminton coach returned and accompanied Pranav to the hospital. The school has taken action against the coach by issuing a notice of dismissal as it was determined that he had not followed the safety protocols of the institution. The school stated that the coach should have checked on Pranav and ensured his well-being before leaving the track.
Despite the tragic loss of Pranav Madhaik, it is essential to highlight that the MOH has confirmed that his death is unrelated to the COVID-19 vaccine. The ministry stands firm in emphasizing the safety and efficacy of vaccination, particularly in preventing severe illness from the virus. The Singapore Sports School is addressing the incident by reevaluating and reinforcing its safety protocols to prevent any reoccurrence in the future.
In conclusion, while the heartbreaking passing of 14-year-old athlete Pranav Madhaik has been a deeply saddening event, it has been made clear by the Ministry of Health that there is no connection between his death and COVID-19 vaccination. The focus remains on supporting the grieving family and ensuring the safety and well-being of all students at the elite sports school.
