GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — Guyana’s Ministry of Health Friday said it has launched “a full investigation” into the events leading up to the death of a 12-year-old schoolboy following complications reportedly related to dengue fever.

In a statement in which it expressed “its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of 12-year-old Lokesh Ibrahim”, the ministry said the student of the Skeldon Line Path Secondary School “tragically passed away following complications reportedly related to dengue fever”.

“We are deeply concerned by the circumstances surrounding this case and have therefore launched a full investigation into the events leading up to Lokesh’s death, including the handling of his case by medical personnel at the Skeldon Hospital.”

According to the statement, a three-member team, comprising the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Narine Singh; Internal Medicine Specialist, Dr Shazeema Shaw and Shiek Amir, general surgeon, has been appointed to lead this investigation.

“This investigation will be thorough and transparent, and any necessary actions or disciplinary measures will be taken based on the findings,” the ministry said, adding that the director general of the Ministry of Health, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo and the regional health officer of region six, Dr Vineshri Khirodhar will be visiting the family of the child on Friday.

“The Ministry of Health remains committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of all citizens and reiterates its commitment to full accountability in this matter,” it added.