Centre Reviews COVID Surge: Mild Cases Dominate, No Hospitalisations Reported

New Delhi, May 24, 2025: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has confirmed that the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across India consists predominantly of mild infections, with no hospitalisations reported. In a high-level review chaired by Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, central agencies including ICMR, DGHS, and NCDC noted that active surveillance is being maintained and that all patients are recovering at home.

The assessment was prompted by localized case increases in Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Despite the surge, officials emphasized that no alarming trends have emerged. Of the current 257 active COVID cases nationwide, Kerala reported 69, Maharashtra 44, and Tamil Nadu 34.

Health experts attributed the rise in infections to changing weather conditions, particularly increased humidity and temperature fluctuations, as well as international travel. The ministry reaffirmed that the IDSP and ICMR surveillance networks are closely monitoring developments.

Genomic sequencing has so far identified one case of the NB.1.8.1 variant and four of the LF.7 variant, neither of which is considered to be of increased transmissibility or severity. Similar upticks in cases have also been recorded internationally, including in Singapore and Hong Kong.

States like Jharkhand have begun preparing healthcare infrastructure for contingencies. RIMS Ranchi has activated isolation wards and ICUs, reaffirming readiness to manage any rise in serious cases.

The Centre continues to advise precautionary behaviour, especially among high-risk populations, including mask use and avoiding crowded places.

By Rajeev Sharma

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