Shafraaz Soobratty, a 44-year-old imam from Mauritius, has died of the H1N1 virus just days after returning to his home country to visit his parents. Soobratty had been living in England for 22 years with his wife and three daughters. He had traveled to perform the Umrah pilgrimage before visiting his family in Mauritius. His death has sent shockwaves through his community and family.

Soobratty was an important figure in his community, serving as an imam at the Dartford mosque in Kent, England. He was known for his devotion to his faith and his responsibilities. In addition to his work as an imam, Soobratty also worked with the British government, helping with state benefit applications. His family described him as a kind and dedicated person.

According to Soobratty's uncle, Sabheer Soobratty, the imam had been experiencing symptoms of illness, including a sore throat and flu-like symptoms, before his death. He had visited a hospital on Friday and received medication, but his condition worsened over the weekend. Soobratty was diagnosed with the H1N1 virus at a clinic and received treatment, but unfortunately, he did not survive.

Soobratty's death has had a profound impact on his family, particularly his wife and three young daughters, aged 11, 8, and 6. His parents, Sadeck and Afsana Soobratty, are also grieving the loss of their son. The family had been looking forward to Soobratty's visit, and his sudden death has left them in shock.

The circumstances surrounding Soobratty's death have left many in his community in mourning. His uncle reflected on the significance of Soobratty's final days, including his Umrah pilgrimage and his return to Mauritius to visit his parents. Soobratty's family takes comfort in the fact that he was able to spend time with his loved ones before his passing.

Soobratty's funeral was held on October 7, and his family and community came together to pay their respects. His legacy as a devoted imam and community leader will be remembered by those who knew him. Soobratty's story serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and the unpredictability of life.

The Mauritian community is coming to terms with the loss of a respected and beloved member. Soobratty's death serves as a reminder of the risks associated with the H1N1 virus and the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms persist. His family and community will continue to support one another during this difficult time.

Key points

  • Shafraaz Soobratty, a 44-year-old imam, died of the H1N1 virus in Mauritius on October 6.
  • Soobratty had returned to Mauritius to visit his parents after performing the Umrah pilgrimage.
  • His death has had a profound impact on his family, including his wife and three young daughters.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.