India COVID-19 Cases: Kerala, Maharashtra Lead Surge Amid Rise of JN.1 Variant
India COVID-19 cases are witnessing a steady uptick once again, with Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi, and Karnataka emerging as the key hotspot states. While the current wave remains relatively mild, health authorities and medical professionals are urging citizens to stay alert, adopt preventive measures, and monitor symptoms — especially with the JN.1 sub-variant still dominating.
Rising Infections: Kerala Tops Active Case List
According to the latest data from the Health Ministry, Kerala is currently reporting the highest number of active COVID-19 cases in India, accounting for over 40% of the national total. As of May 26, the state has recorded 335 new infections in the past week, taking the total active caseload to 430.
Maharashtra follows with 210 active cases, while Delhi has reported 104. These three states — along with Karnataka — are being closely watched by health authorities due to the consistent rise in daily cases.
Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat have shown a slight uptick, and Telangana has reported one new case but has advised officials to ramp up monitoring of respiratory infections and vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya.
India COVID-19 Cases: Current Overview
As of now, India has a total of 1,010 active coronavirus cases. While these numbers are significantly lower compared to previous waves, doctors across affected states say they are observing a noticeable increase in outpatient department (OPD) visits due to COVID-like symptoms.
“We’re seeing more patients with mild viral symptoms like sore throat and fever, but none requiring hospitalisation,” said Dr. Vikas Mittal, pulmonologist at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi.
JN.1 Remains Prevalent, But New Sub-Variants Detected:
Two new Omicron sub-variants — NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — have been detected in India. These variants have also been spotted in countries like China, Singapore, and the United States.
While JN.1 continues to be the dominant strain, both NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 have been classified as “Variants Under Monitoring” by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This means they are under close observation but are not yet classified as severe or vaccine-resistant.
Doctors say these new variants appear to be more transmissible but are currently associated with mild symptoms. However, medical professionals are urging vulnerable individuals — including the elderly and those with chronic conditions — to consider getting booster doses if their last vaccination was more than six months ago.
Symptoms to Watch Out For in JN.1 and New Variants:
The symptoms of the JN.1 variant and its sub-lineages are slightly different from the earlier COVID waves. Common symptoms include:
Mild fever
Sore throat
Nasal congestion
Dry cough
Headache
Loss of appetite
Gastrointestinal issues (like vomiting or abdominal discomfort)
Fatigue
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
Fever above 102°F for more than three days
Breathing difficulties
Chest pain
Oxygen saturation below 94%
Medical Advisory and Public Health Guidance:
The Indian Medical Association’s Karnataka chapter has issued a fresh advisory to doctors amid the current surge. Physicians are advised to be vigilant, and patients are encouraged to keep paracetamol and basic cough medications handy at home.
“It’s important not to panic. Maintain basic hygiene, wear masks in crowded places, and stay at home if symptomatic,” said Dr. Mittal.
“Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face increases the risk. Hand sanitization is key.”
Dr. Manisha Mendiratta, head pulmonologist at Sarvodaya Hospital in Faridabad, emphasized the importance of booster shots for vulnerable groups, especially with the slow but steady emergence of new variants.
COVID-19 Booster Doses: Do We Need Them Again?
Although there’s no nationwide advisory for precautionary booster doses yet, experts are recommending them for high-risk groups.
“Booster shots enhance immunity that may have waned over time. For elderly patients or those with comorbidities, it can make a significant difference,” said Dr. Chirag Tandon, Director of Internal Medicine, Sharda Care Healthcity.
Final Thoughts About COVID-19: Stay Informed, Stay Safe
While the current rise in India COVID-19 cases is not overwhelming the healthcare system, experts agree that now is not the time to let our guard down. With new sub-variants showing higher transmissibility, even mild cases can create ripple effects if preventive behavior isn’t followed.
Doctors urge the public to stay updated, observe Covid-appropriate behavior, and avoid spreading misinformation or fear.
Bottom line: No need to panic, but it’s essential to stay cautious. The virus may have become milder, but vigilance is still our best defense.
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