India is witnessing a renewed rise in Covid-19 cases with the active caseload increasing to 7,121, following the detection of 306 new infections within the past 24 hours, according to data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday.During the same period, six fatalities linked to the virus were also reported, raising concerns over emerging variants and regional outbreaks.
Of the reported deaths, three occurred in Kerala, two in Karnataka, and one in Maharashtra. Health authorities confirmed that one of the deceased was a 43-year-old male with a compromised immune system, while the others were elderly individuals with a history of chronic and respiratory illnesses, underscoring the heightened vulnerability of at-risk populations.
The current increase in cases is being attributed to the circulation of newly emerging variants, notably LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and the recently identified NB.1.8.1 subvariant. While these variants are still under investigation, early trends suggest increased transmissibility, although hospitalisation rates remain relatively low at this stage.
Among the states, Kerala continues to report the highest number of active Covid-19 cases, with a total of 2,223 patients currently undergoing treatment. The state also recorded the most new infections in the past 24 hours, logging 170 fresh cases. Gujarat followed with 114 new infections, pushing its active tally to 1,223, while Delhi’s active cases rose to 757, indicating a wider geographical spread of the virus.
The government authorities as well as health experts have reiterated the importance of maintaining Covid-appropriate behaviour, including wearing masks, frequent hand washing, and avoiding crowded indoor spaces, particularly in areas experiencing a rise in cases.Furthermore, with seasonal viral fevers also circulating, healthcare professionals stressed the need to differentiate Covid-19 from other infections.(UNI)
