India’s Active Covid-19 Cases Cross 1,000 Mark; New Variants Detected in Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi
India has recorded over 1,000 active Covid-19 cases as of Monday, May 26, marking a steady resurgence in infections primarily concentrated in Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi. The uptick includes 752 fresh cases reported in just the past week, amid detection of two new virus variants.
According to official data, Kerala reported the highest number of new infections at 335, taking its total active caseload to 430. Maharashtra and Delhi followed with 153 and 99 fresh cases respectively. Maharashtra now has 209 active cases while Delhi has 104.
Other states witnessing smaller rises include Gujarat (83), Karnataka (47), Uttar Pradesh (15), and West Bengal (12), reflecting a wider national trend of low but persistent spread.
The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has confirmed the detection of two new subvariants—NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. Both are currently classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as Variants Under Monitoring, not yet reaching the level of Variants of Concern.
Although these variants have not been linked to a rise in severe illness, health authorities are closely tracking their spread and mutation profile.
Union Health Secretary reviewed the evolving situation over the weekend. A government statement issued on Saturday said:
“Cases have mainly been reported from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Most cases are mild and under home care.”
Officials have not issued any immediate changes to public health protocols but have emphasized continued surveillance, especially in districts showing higher case concentration.
Public health experts maintain that the current rise does not resemble previous waves in either scale or severity. However, they caution against complacency and advise continued adherence to basic hygiene practices.
On social media, users in Kerala and Delhi shared anecdotal reports of more people falling mildly ill, prompting renewed calls for precautionary measures, especially in crowded public spaces.
India had seen a dramatic decline in Covid-19 cases throughout 2023, with active cases hovering below 500 for months. This new rise, though modest, is the first significant uptick in 2024, sparking renewed focus on genomic surveillance and state-level health preparedness.
