A Dubai-based Indian expatriate has died in Kerala after reportedly developing suspected leptospirosis, commonly known as rat fever, while visiting his hometown on vacation. The sudden death of 48-year-old Teejo George has left his family, friends and colleagues in both the UAE and India grieving.
George died at a hospital in Kannur on Saturday, shortly after being admitted with symptoms including diarrhoea and severe body pain. According to his family, doctors suspected that he had contracted leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can become life-threatening if it develops into a severe form.
WEBDESK – ZAINAB MIRAJ – SHARJAH NEWS
Sudden Illness During Kerala Visit
George had travelled from Dubai to Kerala to spend time in his hometown. He reportedly became unwell during the trip and was taken to hospital after his condition deteriorated.
Leptospirosis is a disease that can spread to humans through exposure to water, soil or food contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents. The infection is more common in areas affected by heavy rainfall and flooding, when contaminated water can come into contact with people through cuts in the skin or mucous membranes.
Early symptoms can include fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. In serious cases, the infection can lead to complications affecting vital organs such as the kidneys and liver.
A Long Career in Dubai
George had spent more than two decades working in the UAE. He was employed as a senior sales supervisor at an engineering consultancy and had been with the company since 1999.
His employer paid tribute to him following his death, describing him as much more than a colleague. The company highlighted his dedication, friendly personality and willingness to support those around him.
George had recently completed more than 27 years with the organisation and had been recognised for his long service. His colleagues said his extensive knowledge of Dubai and Sharjah, along with his strong professional relationships, made him an important member of the company.
Friends Remember His Generosity
Beyond his professional achievements, George was remembered by friends as someone who was always willing to help others.
People close to him said he regularly assisted individuals with practical problems, including medical expenses, official paperwork and employment matters. He was also involved in community activities and maintained strong connections with fellow members of the UAE’s Indian expatriate community.
One longtime friend described him as a dependable person who could always be trusted to complete a task. His colleagues said his approachable nature and willingness to help made him well-liked among those who knew him.
A Reunion That Became a Final Memory
George’s death has been particularly difficult for his former classmates because he had attended a major college reunion just weeks earlier.
The gathering marked 30 years since the classmates had left Nirmalagiri College in Kuthuparamba, Kerala. George had reportedly played an active role in reconnecting former classmates and encouraging them to attend the event.
Friends who saw him at the reunion said he was energetic and enthusiastic throughout the celebrations. Many had travelled from different parts of the world to take part in the gathering, unaware that it would become one of their final memories with him.
Family and Friends Say Goodbye
George is survived by his wife and three school-going children in the UAE, along with his mother and two brothers in Kerala.
Several of his friends and colleagues travelled from the UAE to attend his funeral, reflecting the strong relationships he had developed during his years abroad.
For those who knew him, George’s sudden passing has been difficult to comprehend. Friends have remembered him as a cheerful, generous and dependable person who brought people together and remained connected with those around him.
His recent college reunion, which was intended to celebrate friendship and shared memories after three decades, has now become a poignant final chapter in the life of a man remembered fondly by his family, colleagues and friends in both India and the UAE.
