Rising COVID-19 Cases in India: Delhi, Mumbai, Noida Report Infections; Oxygen Cylinder, Bed Preparations Accelerated; JN.1 Variant Suspected; Government on Alert, No Need for Panic.
Covid-19: India is witnessing a resurgence in COVID-19 cases. New infections are rapidly emerging in states like Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Gujarat, along with Noida and Ghaziabad, bordering the national capital, Delhi. Delhi recorded 23 cases in May, the first time in three years. Maharashtra, Kerala, and Karnataka are also experiencing a renewed surge in infections.
First Case in Noida, Delhi Administration on High Alert
Noida reported its first resurgence case on Saturday, a 55-year-old infected individual. Four more cases have been confirmed in Ghaziabad. Following the emergence of 23 new cases in Delhi, the health department has instructed hospitals to maintain adequate stocks of oxygen cylinders, COVID testing kits, beds, and vaccines.
JN.1 Variant Driving Infections, but Symptoms Mild
The Omicron sub-variant JN.1 is being cited as the primary cause of this resurgence. Experts state that while this variant is highly contagious, there is no cause for alarm as symptoms are similar to those of a common influenza. Infected individuals are experiencing fever, sore throat, runny nose, headache, and fatigue. Patients are recovering within three to four days, and no deaths have been reported so far.
Kerala Reports Highest Number of Infections (273), Masks Made Mandatory
Kerala has recorded the highest number of cases in May, with 273 infections. The state government has increased surveillance across all districts and mandated mask-wearing in hospitals. Individuals exhibiting symptoms like cough or cold are advised to cover their faces.
Rising Numbers in Maharashtra and Mumbai
Mumbai, Maharashtra, has reported 95 new cases in May, the highest in the state. Reassuringly, the hospitalization rate remains low, with only 16 patients admitted. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has directed COVID testing for all patients exhibiting SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Illness) symptoms.
Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh Remain Vigilant
Karnataka has reported 35 new cases, including a nine-month-old infant. The state government advises COVID testing for individuals displaying severe respiratory illness symptoms. While Andhra Pradesh hasn't seen a significant increase in infections, the government has emphasized ensuring the availability of vaccines, PPE kits, and masks.
Gujarat: 20 Cases in Ahmedabad in a Single Day
The city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat recorded 20 COVID-19 cases in a single day. According to the municipal corporation, a total of 39 patients have been confirmed in May, with eight having recovered. The North-West zone of the city reported the highest number of cases, with 10.
