Skopje, 19 March 2025 (MIA) — An investigation has been opened into the cause of death of a 32-year-old patient in the Kumanovo General Hospital who died Monday after going into anaphylactic shock. It is not yet known what caused the patient's anaphylaxis, a response by the immune system trying to fight off an antigen, according to Health Minister Arben Taravari.

Asked about the patient's death, Minister Taravari said it could have been caused by a sudden-onset allergic reaction to a medication.

"I have been informed about the Kumanovo patient," Taravari said. "Truth be told, anaphylactic shock can happen anywhere and at any time. Unfortunately, sometimes anaphylactic shock can lead to death."

"Maybe they knew and maybe they didn't know, but the patient may have received some medication," he said, adding that this could have caused "a prompt immune response."

According to the health minister, people will be held accountable if the investigation reveals any negligent medical care in the Kumanovo hospital. "If there is any medical negligence, responsibility will certainly be taken," he said.

State Sanitary and Health Inspectorate and Ministry of Health teams are conducting the investigation.

Taravari was answering questions Wednesday at a news conference held to provide updates on the condition of the injured in the Kochani fire.

The 32-year-old Kumanovo resident, who had been admitted to the hospital complaining of abdominal pain, died Monday at 11 am after attempts to resuscitate him failed.

Kumanovo police officers questioned the medical staff on duty at the hospital and a public prosecutor has ordered an autopsy. mr/