Active coronavirus cases across India have surpassed 4,000. Five deaths were recorded in the past 24 hours, raising concerns. However, the ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and health officials have urged the public to remain vigilant rather than panic.
Coronavirus Update: India is once again witnessing a rise in COVID-19 cases. While infections had been declining for several months, a recent surge is attributed to the new sub-variant NB.1.8.1. A total of 4,026 active cases were reported nationwide in the past 24 hours, along with 5 confirmed deaths.
According to statements from the Ministry of Health and the ICMR, this new variant spreads rapidly, but the resulting illness is generally mild. Nevertheless, the central and state governments are on high alert to manage any situation.
Rising Cases Increase Concern
According to the latest report from the Ministry of Health, an increase in COVID-19 cases has been observed in states such as Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. Maharashtra reported 59 new cases, with 20 from Mumbai alone. The total number of active cases in the state has crossed 800. Karnataka recorded 87 new cases, bringing the state's active case count to 311. West Bengal reported 44 cases, with a total of 331 active patients.
5 Deaths Reignite Fears
Although symptoms are reported to be mild, the risk of death remains for severe cases. Five deaths due to coronavirus were reported in the past 24 hours. In Kerala, an 80-year-old suffering from multiple comorbidities passed away. Maharashtra reported the deaths of two women, aged 70 and 73, both with diabetes and hypertension.
Tamil Nadu reported the death of a 69-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease. A 43-year-old woman in West Bengal also succumbed, having pre-existing severe heart and kidney conditions.
New Variant: Highly Contagious, but Mild
According to the ICMR report, the current infections are caused by the Omicron NB.1.8.1 variant. This variant is highly contagious, but symptoms are generally mild. Common symptoms among infected individuals include fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose, body aches, and headache. These symptoms resemble those of seasonal flu, potentially making diagnosis difficult.
Experts believe that the COVID-19 vaccine remains a b protective shield. The vaccine protects against severe symptoms and helps build herd immunity. The ICMR has emphasized the importance of renewed vaccination drives, particularly for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
Central and State Government Preparedness
The central government has instructed all states to review their healthcare infrastructure. Hospitals are on high alert. The availability of oxygen cylinders, medicines, PPE kits, and ICU beds is being ensured. Union Minister of State for Health, Prataprao Jadhav, has stated that the country is fully prepared to handle any emergency.
