Sympathies extended to family of Dublin doctor who died from Covid-19

The CEO of the HSE Mr Paul Reid has extended his sympathies to the family and loved ones of Dr Waqar Ali Shah, who died this morning at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, following a long illness due to Covid-19.

Mr Reid commented this afternoon:  “It is with great sadness that I learned this morning of the passing of Dr Waqar Ali Shah in the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, following a long illness from Covid-19.”

According to the HSE CEO, Dr Shah is the seventh healthcare worker in Ireland to die as a result of the disease.

“In common with his colleagues, I know he worked diligently and selflessly to care for patients at all times, and particularly during the pandemic,” said Mr Reid.

“I wish to extend the sympathy of all in the HSE, and all healthcare staff, to Dr Shah’s wife, family and loved ones at this very sad time.

“My thoughts are also with all of his colleagues in the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital.”

The IHCA has said the hospital community is in mourning today at the untimely passing “of our colleague and friend”.

“Dr Shah’s tragic death at a young age reminds us once more of the sacrifices made by frontline healthcare professionals, particularly at this time.   

“Dr Shah was an exemplary medical professional with an immense dedication to public service. His expertise, care and warmth made an impression with patients and colleagues alike. This was evident every day among those who worked with Dr Shah and witnessed at first hand his deep commitment to healthcare. 

“At the onset of the Covid-19, Dr Shah put himself selflessly at the frontline in the fight against this awful pandemic, paying the ultimate price. Our thoughts and condolences are with Dr Shah’s wife Rubab, his children and mother at this sad time.”

The IMO said the death of Dr Waqar Ali Shah “is a matter of sorrow for every health professional in Ireland. The IMO extends our deepest sympathy to Dr Shah’s family and colleagues. This tragedy reminds us of the risks faced and sacrifices made by health professionals in the fight against Covid-19.”

The RCPI has said “we are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Dr Waqar Ali. Our deepest condolences from all in the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland to his family, friends and colleagues.”

According to the Mater Hospital, Dr Shah had been due to begin a shift in April when he felt unwell. He asked to be seen as a patient and was admitted immediately with Covid-19 illness.  

“His colleagues remember him as a hardworking and diligent doctor with a humble and down to earth personality,” according to the hospital.

The Mater Hospital extended its deepest sympathies to Dr Shah’s wife, family and loved ones.  

The staff of Beaumont Hospital also expressed deep sadness to learn of the untimely death of their former colleague.

“Dr Waqar dedicated his professional life to emergency medicine, selflessly putting himself at the frontline in our fight against Covid-19.  His friends and colleagues in Beaumont Hospital remember him for his clinical diligence as well as his kind and gentle manner. He will be greatly missed by his colleagues in the Emergency Department where he regularly worked for the past seven years.

“Our deepest sympathies go to his wife and children who have lost a true hero.”