India sees COVID-19 spike: 4 new deaths, active cases near 4,000

New Delhi: India is witnessing a steady rise in COVID-19 cases, with active infections nearing the 4,000 mark and four new deaths reported in the past 24 hours.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the country recorded 3,961 active cases as of 8am on Monday, with a cumulative death toll of 32 since January 1, 2025.

The latest data shows that 203 new cases were added to the national tally, with Delhi, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal among the states reporting the highest numbers.

Delhi registered 47 fresh cases, taking its active case count to 483. Kerala continues to record the most active cases at 1,435, followed by Maharashtra (506), Gujarat (338), and West Bengal (331).

Tragically, one death each was reported from Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Kerala, taking the total fatalities in this latest wave to 32. While this fresh surge is driven by two new Omicron sub-variants —NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — health experts and authorities have assured the public that the situation remains under control and there is no need to panic.

Dr. Harshal R. Salve, Additional Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, emphasized the low risk of hospital burden.

“It is highly unlikely that the current infection can cause a higher burden on hospitals. The majority of the population has natural immunity, reducing the chances of severe disease,” he told IANS.

Experts have urged continued caution, especially among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. Dr. S.K. Chaudhary of Motilal Nehru Joint Hospital in Prayagraj stated, “Though cases are rising due to the JN.1 sub-variant, there’s no need to panic. However, high transmissibility means those at risk should wear N95 masks and practise good hygiene.”

Preparedness remains a key focus for both the Centre and state governments.

Union Minister of State for Health and AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, affirmed that infrastructure such as oxygen plants and ICU beds has been reviewed. “We’re fully alert and ready to deal with any situation,” he said.

In Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya’s Rajarshi Dashrath Autonomous State Medical College conducted a mock drill to assess readiness.

Principal Dr. Satyajeet Verma confirmed that all PSA oxygen plants are operational and that precautionary testing and public advisories are being implemented.

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has directed the Union Government to file a comprehensive status report on its COVID-19 policy, particularly regarding sample collection and transportation protocols.

The directive followed a contempt plea highlighting delays in implementing SOPs finalized in a 2023 meeting. The court emphasized that the “next COVID-19 pandemic is far from over” and urged prompt action.

As schools in Karnataka have been advised to send symptomatic children home, and states continue monitoring the situation, health experts stress vigilance over fear. Continued adherence to basic safety protocols—mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and early testing—remains crucial as India navigates this new phase of the pandemic.