J.N. Pande, a former doctor at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, died of COVID-19 on May 23.

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Pande, a pulmonologist and former head of the Department of Medicine at the AIIMS, had tested positive for COVID-19 on May 19. He was 79 and died at his residence. Pande was currently associated with the Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research -- a multi-specialty hospital located in South Delhi. "Pande was under home care and seemed to be recovering. The cause of death is suspected to be cardiac arrest. Deepest condolences to his family and everyone who will miss him dearly," the hospital said in a tweet. Pande had comorbid conditions and his wife, who also tested positive, is admitted at the AIIMS.

Earlier in the day, Sangita Reddy, a senior Delhi doctor and Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Enterprises, shared the news in a tweet. "Deeply saddened to hear that today COVID-19 claimed its most illustrious victim, Dr. J.N Pande, Director and Prof of Pulmonology at AIIMS, Delhi. A stalwart of the medical world, his work in pulmonology will continue to ensure better health for many. My condolences to his family," she tweeted. Pulmonology is a medical specialty that deals with diseases involving the respiratory tract.