After a period of relative calm, India is witnessing a renewed surge in Covid-19 cases. Active infections have jumped to 2,710, with a sharp five-fold increase in the past week alone, as per data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Kerala leads the tally with 1,147 active cases, followed by Maharashtra (424) and Delhi (294). Other states reporting notable numbers include Gujarat (223), Karnataka (148), Tamil Nadu (148), and West Bengal (116).
In the last 24 hours, seven fatalities have been reported—two in Maharashtra, and one each in Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu. This marks the first Covid-related death in Delhi during the current uptick. So far, 22 deaths have been recorded in the country this year.
Health officials maintain that most reported cases are mild and don’t warrant alarm. Kerala’s high case count is attributed to more aggressive testing, according to ministry sources.
In a rare case, Mizoram has reported two fresh infections, the first in over seven months.
What’s Fueling the Surge?
Two new Omicron sub-variants—LF.7 and NB.1.8.1—are believed to be behind the rise in cases, although JN.1 remains the dominant strain nationwide. Neither LF.7 nor NB.1.8.1 has been flagged by the World Health Organization as variants of concern or interest.
Experts suggest these variants may have some ability to evade immunity, but there’s no indication of severe illness or long-term complications. The symptoms being reported are familiar: fever, fatigue, sore throat, runny nose, and headaches—largely resembling seasonal flu.
Preparedness Measures in Place
In response to the increase, states have been advised to ensure hospital readiness, including the availability of beds, oxygen supplies, test kits, and vaccines. Authorities have also urged the elderly and immunocompromised to wear masks in crowded places as a precaution.
While the numbers remain relatively low compared to past waves, the recent jump is a reminder that the virus continues to evolve—and vigilance is still essential.
