COVID Strikes Again: New Variant Triggers Nationwide Spike — 28 Dead, 3961 Infected

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): COVID-19 has once again gained momentum in India. According to the Union Health Ministry, 203 new cases were recorded in the past 24 hours on Monday. With this, the number of active cases nationwide has risen to 3,961. So far, a total of 28 deaths have been reported, including two in the last 24 hours from Karnataka and Kerala.

Virus Outbreak Intensifies in 5 States:

Currently, Kerala has the highest number of active cases at 1,400. West Bengal reported the highest number of new infections in the last 24 hours. Other active case counts include Maharashtra (485), Delhi (436), Gujarat (320), West Bengal (287), Karnataka (238), Tamil Nadu (199), and Uttar Pradesh (149). Several other states have also reported cases, though fewer than 100.

In Uttar Pradesh, Noida has reported the most cases, with 14 new infections in the last 24 hours. The district now has 57 active cases, including 30 men and 27 women. All are in home isolation. Health departments have begun mock drill preparations in hospitals as a precaution.

The rapid spike in cases has raised alarms. On May 22, India had only 257 active cases. By May 26, this rose to 1,010, and by June 1, it surpassed 3,395. It now stands at 3,961.Dr. Rajeev Bahl, Director General of ICMR, stated that genome sequencing of samples from the western and southern parts of the country has confirmed the presence of new Omicron sub-variants. While these variants are currently causing mild symptoms, he stressed the need for vigilance.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has also listed the LF.7 and NB.1.8 variants as “under monitoring” until May 2025. These are believed to be driving case surges in China and other parts of Asia. As cases rise, health authorities have urged the public not to panic, but to remain alert. Basic precautions like wearing masks, hand hygiene, and avoiding crowded places are once again being advised.