COVID-19 Cases in India Spike Sharply: Active Cases Cross 5,000 with New Variants Emerging
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India is witnessing a rapid surge in COVID-19 infections, with active cases climbing to 5,364 nationwide. In the past 24 hours alone, nearly 500 new infections were reported, alongside four recent deaths. Since the start of the year, the virus has claimed 55 lives, 53 of which occurred in just the last two weeks, signalling a worrying trend.
Sharp Rise in Cases Across States
The number of active COVID-19 patients has jumped dramatically over the past three weeks - from just 93 cases on May 16 to over 5,000 now, marking a 58-fold increase. The virus has spread across 29 states and union territories, with Kerala leading in active infections at 1,679 cases. Other states with significant case counts include Gujarat (615), West Bengal (596), Delhi (592), and Maharashtra (548).
Recent Deaths and Vulnerable Groups
Most recent fatalities involved patients with serious underlying health issues. Karnataka reported one death - a 65-year-old man with diabetes and hypertension. Kerala recorded two deaths involving elderly patients with multiple health complications. Punjab also reported one death of a 69-year-old woman battling obesity and lung issues. Maharashtra continues to have the highest toll with 17 deaths this year.
Schools Reopen with Safety Measures
As schools in Odisha resume after summer break, strict COVID protocols are in place. Children displaying mild symptoms such as cough or fever must wear masks, while those with severe symptoms are advised to stay home and isolate, according to the state’s Education Minister, Nityanand Gond.
Government Prepares for Possible Fourth Wave
To brace for a potential new wave, the central government conducted mock drills in select hospitals across several states. These exercises tested oxygen supply systems, availability of medicines, and ventilator readiness. The drills build on earlier assessments done in early June focusing on key healthcare infrastructure like oxygen tanks and medical gas pipelines.
Four New COVID Variants Under Watch
Scientists have identified four new COVID variants - LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1 - in samples from South and West India. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is sequencing samples from other regions as well to monitor the situation closely. Though these variants are not yet classified as serious threats by the World Health Organization (WHO), continued vigilance is advised.
India’s COVID situation remains dynamic, with rising cases and new variants emerging. Continued adherence to safety measures and government preparedness will be crucial in managing the evolving challenge.
Sharp Rise in Cases Across States
The number of active COVID-19 patients has jumped dramatically over the past three weeks - from just 93 cases on May 16 to over 5,000 now, marking a 58-fold increase. The virus has spread across 29 states and union territories, with Kerala leading in active infections at 1,679 cases. Other states with significant case counts include Gujarat (615), West Bengal (596), Delhi (592), and Maharashtra (548). Recent Deaths and Vulnerable Groups
Most recent fatalities involved patients with serious underlying health issues. Karnataka reported one death - a 65-year-old man with diabetes and hypertension. Kerala recorded two deaths involving elderly patients with multiple health complications. Punjab also reported one death of a 69-year-old woman battling obesity and lung issues. Maharashtra continues to have the highest toll with 17 deaths this year.Schools Reopen with Safety Measures
As schools in Odisha resume after summer break, strict COVID protocols are in place. Children displaying mild symptoms such as cough or fever must wear masks, while those with severe symptoms are advised to stay home and isolate, according to the state’s Education Minister, Nityanand Gond. Government Prepares for Possible Fourth Wave
To brace for a potential new wave, the central government conducted mock drills in select hospitals across several states. These exercises tested oxygen supply systems, availability of medicines, and ventilator readiness. The drills build on earlier assessments done in early June focusing on key healthcare infrastructure like oxygen tanks and medical gas pipelines.Four New COVID Variants Under Watch
Scientists have identified four new COVID variants - LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1 - in samples from South and West India. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is sequencing samples from other regions as well to monitor the situation closely. Though these variants are not yet classified as serious threats by the World Health Organization (WHO), continued vigilance is advised. India’s COVID situation remains dynamic, with rising cases and new variants emerging. Continued adherence to safety measures and government preparedness will be crucial in managing the evolving challenge.
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