French Journalist Suffers Stroke While Visiting Badami in Karnataka
A distressing medical emergency unfolded in the historic town of Badami, located in Karnataka's Bagalkot district, on Tuesday. A 75-year-old French journalist, identified as Izatk Goldberg, suffered a sudden stroke around 11 am, prompting immediate intervention from local health authorities.
Immediate Medical Response and Hospital Transfer
District Health Officer Dr. DM Manjunath provided details of the incident, stating that Mr. Goldberg, a French citizen, was initially administered first-aid at the taluk hospital in Badami. However, due to the severity of his condition, further specialized care was deemed necessary. "Since there was a need for an MRI scan and a neurological opinion, we shifted him to a private hospital in Bagalkot," Dr. Manjunath explained. This transfer was crucial to ensure the patient received comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services.
Current Health Status and International Coordination
The journalist's current health condition remains a concern. "Currently, his orientation is weak. Treatment is going on," Dr. Manjunath noted, highlighting the ongoing medical efforts. In response to the situation, local officials have proactively engaged with international authorities. The French consulate in Delhi has been informed about the incident, and they are expected to verify Mr. Goldberg's insurance details and make decisions regarding potential medical evacuation, such as airlifting him if required.
Challenges in Gathering Information
Authorities face challenges in obtaining complete information about the journalist's background and travel plans. "We do not have details as to how many days he is in India, and where he arrived in Badami from," Dr. Manjunath admitted. This lack of clarity is partly due to language barriers, as all of Mr. Goldberg's documents are in French. One of his identity cards indicates that he is a reporter for a French media outlet, but specific details about his employer or the purpose of his visit remain unclear.
This incident underscores the importance of prompt medical response and international cooperation in handling health emergencies involving foreign nationals in India. The local health department continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that Mr. Goldberg receives the necessary care while facilitating communication with the French consulate for further assistance.
