India reports 276 new Covid-19 cases, raising active infections to 4,578. Health officials attribute the surge to emerging variants like NB.1.8.1 and JN.1. Nationwide hospital drill set for June 5.
The upward trend in Covid-19 cases in India shows no signs of slowing, with 276 new infections recorded in the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry. This brings the total number of active cases nationwide to 4,578.
Tragically, seven Covid-related fatalities were reported, among them a five-month-old infant with pre-existing respiratory issues. The deaths included three individuals from Maharashtra and two each from Delhi and Karnataka. Health Ministry data indicated that six of the deceased had underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or pneumonia.
The current surge is being attributed to the proliferation of emerging Covid-19 variants, including LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and the newly identified NB.1.8.1 subvariant.
In response, the Ministry of Health is intensifying its preparedness measures. A nationwide hospital readiness drill is scheduled for June 5 to evaluate the capacity of healthcare facilities to respond to a potential spike in cases.
Since May 22, the active caseload has surged from 257 to over 4,000. Kerala remains the hardest-hit state, followed by Delhi, West Bengal, and Maharashtra.
In terms of recovery, a total of 3,281 individuals have either recovered, been discharged, or migrated in 2025. In the past 24 hours alone, 581 recoveries were recorded.
The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has confirmed the detection of one NB.1.8.1 case in Tamil Nadu (April) and four LF.7 cases in Gujarat (May). The most prevalent variant currently in circulation is JN.1, which accounts for 53% of sequenced samples, followed by BA.2 (26%) and other Omicron-derived strains.
The central government has directed all states and union territories to ensure sufficient availability of oxygen, ICU beds, and critical medicines. Health authorities have urged high-risk groups바카라”especially the elderly and those with chronic health conditions바카라”to remain vigilant and seek timely medical care if symptoms appear or worsen.
Meanwhile, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has renewed its appeal for the public to adhere to basic preventive protocols, including wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, and avoiding densely populated areas.