India is witnessing a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases after months of low activity, with infections jumping five-fold and surpassing 1,000 in the week ending May 25. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, active cases have surged to 2,710. Kerala remains the worst-affected state, reporting 1,147 cases, followed by Maharashtra (424), Delhi (294), and Gujarat (223). Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have each recorded 148 cases, and West Bengal has reported 116.
Seven deaths were reported in the past 24 hours, taking the total toll in 2025 to 22. Maharashtra recorded two deaths, while Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu registered one each. Most infections are reported to be mild, and the Health Ministry has urged citizens not to panic.
The increase in cases in Kerala may be linked to higher testing rates. Mizoram also reported two cases after a gap of seven months.
Experts attribute the recent surge to two Omicron sub-variants, LF.7 and NB.1.8.1, though JN.1 remains the dominant strain in India. Neither new sub-variant has been classified by WHO as a Variant of Concern or Interest. The symptoms remain similar to the common flu — fever, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, and headaches.
In response, states have been instructed to ensure the availability of hospital beds, oxygen, testing kits, and vaccines. Elderly individuals and those with comorbidities are advised to wear masks in crowded areas.