COVID-19 Cases Surge in India: Latest Updates on Variants, State-wise Trends, and Government Response

India is witnessing a gradual rise in COVID-19 cases, with 257 active infections reported as of May 19, 2025. The surge is attributed to new variants, including NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, which have been detected in multiple states. While health officials maintain that most cases are mild, states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Karnataka have issued advisories to ensure preparedness2.

New COVID-19 Variants in India

NB.1.8.1 and LF.7: These newly emerging variants have been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as Variants Under Monitoring (VUMs) but not as Variants of Concern (VOCs).
JN.1 Variant: The most common strain in India, accounting for 53% of positive cases.
Global Spread: These variants are reportedly driving COVID-19 surges in China, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.

State-wise COVID-19 Case Trends

Delhi

23 new cases reported as of May 22, 2025.
The Delhi Health Department has issued an advisory to hospitals to ensure oxygen bed availability.

Kerala

95 active cases, the highest in India.
69 new infections recorded in May, with one fatality.

Tamil Nadu

66 active cases, with one NB.1.8.1 variant detected in April.

Maharashtra

56 cases, with Mumbai reporting the highest infections.

Karnataka

35 cases, including one COVID-related death in Bengaluru.
A nine-month-old infant tested positive on May 22.

Other States

Gujarat: 6 new cases detected in Ahmedabad.
Haryana: 1 active case reported.

Government Response & Health Advisory

Enhanced Surveillance: The Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring developments through INSACOG, ICMR, and NCDC.
Hospital Preparedness: States have been advised to ensure availability of testing kits, medicines, and oxygen supplies.
Public Guidelines:
- Mask-wearing in crowded places.
- Hand hygiene and social distancing.
- Avoidance of large gatherings.

Expert Opinions & Future Outlook

Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar, India’s top epidemiologist, stated that COVID-19 has become endemic and there is no cause for alarm unless hospitalizations rise significantly.
Health officials emphasize vigilance, urging the public to stay alert but not panic.
Singapore and Hong Kong have reported a 28% rise in weekly cases and 31 COVID-related deaths, respectively.