COVID-19 Cases Surge to 2,700 in India, 7 Deaths Reported; Kerala Worst Hit

Active COVID-19 cases in India have surged to 2,710, with seven deaths reported in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Kerala accounts for the highest number of infections, leading a nationwide spike after months of low transmission rates.

The sudden surge represents a five-fold increase in infections, with cases crossing the 1,000-mark in the week ending May 25, signaling a potential resurgence of the pandemic in the country.

Kerala has recorded the highest number of active cases at 1,147, followed by Maharashtra with 424 infections. Delhi ranks third with 294 cases, while Gujarat has reported 223 active infections.

Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have each registered 148 cases, with West Bengal recording 116 active infections. The distribution shows southern and western states bearing the brunt of the current wave.

Seven fatalities have been reported in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll for the first five months of 2025 to 22. Maharashtra has recorded two deaths, while Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu have each reported one death.

The mortality rate remains relatively low compared to previous waves, though health experts continue monitoring the situation closely.

Two new Omicron sub-variants, LF.7 and NB.1.8, are believed to be contributing to the sudden spike in COVID-19 cases across the country. However, JN.1 remains the dominant strain circulating in India.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has not yet classified either LF.7 or NB.1.8 as Variants of Concern (VOCs) or Variants of Interest (VOIs), indicating their impact may be limited.

Health experts suggest that while the new variants may have some capability to evade existing immunity, there is currently no evidence indicating they could cause long-term infections or severe complications.

The symptoms associated with the new variants remain largely consistent with common flu, providing some reassurance about their severity compared to earlier COVID-19 strains.

Patients infected with the current variants are experiencing symptoms similar to seasonal flu. The most commonly reported symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore throat, headaches, fatigue, and exhaustion.

The mild nature of symptoms has led to concerns about under-reporting, as many individuals may not seek testing for what appears to be common cold or flu.

The dramatic increase in cases has caught health authorities’ attention, particularly given the extended period of low transmission rates. The five-fold jump in infections within a single week indicates rapid community spread.

Health officials are closely monitoring the situation to determine if additional public health measures may be necessary to contain the spread.

State governments in the worst-affected regions are reviewing their preparedness and response protocols. Kerala, being the most affected state, has reinforced its healthcare infrastructure and testing capabilities.

Maharashtra and Delhi have also enhanced surveillance measures and are conducting targeted testing in high-risk areas to contain further spread.

Despite the surge, the healthcare system appears better prepared compared to previous waves. Hospital infrastructure developed during earlier phases of the pandemic remains available for deployment if needed.

Medical experts emphasize that the current wave, while concerning, appears manageable given the mild symptoms and relatively low hospitalization rates.

India’s extensive vaccination campaign appears to be limiting the severity of infections. The majority of the population has received at least two doses of COVID-19 vaccines, which may be contributing to the milder symptom profile.

Regular updates on case trends and variant circulation are being shared with state governments to facilitate coordinated response efforts.

Health authorities continue to recommend basic preventive measures including hand hygiene, mask-wearing in crowded places, and avoiding large gatherings for vulnerable populations.

Individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to seek testing and follow isolation protocols to prevent further transmission.