India has witnessed a subtle resurgence of COVID-19 infections, with active cases crossing the 250-mark as of May 19, 2025. Amid growing concerns over rising infections in Southeast Asian countries like Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and China, the Union Ministry of Health convened a high-level review meeting to assess the national situation. Chaired by the Director General of Health Services, the meeting brought together officials from key bodies, including the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Emergency Medical Relief (EMR) Division, Disaster Management Cell, and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Authorities assured that the situation in India remains under control, with the majority of cases reported as mild and manageable at home.

Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu Report Highest Infections

Kerala has emerged as the state with the highest number of cases, reporting 69 new infections since May 12, followed by Maharashtra with 44 and Tamil Nadu with 34. Other states such as Karnataka, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Sikkim have recorded low, single-digit case counts.

Experts attribute Kerala’s spike to a combination of factors. The state’s popularity among foreign tourists and internal travel has increased the chances of virus transmission. Fluctuations in weather conditions and high humidity are also linked to weakened immunity levels, making individuals more vulnerable to infection. 

JN.1 Variant: Symptom Profile and Updates 

The recent uptick in COVID-19 cases across India has been primarily attributed to the JN.1 subvariant of the Omicron lineage. Health experts have identified JN.1 as a highly transmissible, though relatively mild, strain that has caused infection spikes globally, including in Southeast Asia. While the variant does not appear to cause severe illness in most individuals, its ability to spread rapidly, particularly in humid climates, raises concerns about silent community transmission. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) continues to monitor its evolution through genomic surveillance, advising citizens to remain cautious, especially those with comorbidities or compromised immunity. Common symptoms include:

• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Runny or blocked nose
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of taste or smell

Ahmedabad Records Seven New Cases, All Under Home Isolation

Ahmedabad city has reported 7 fresh COVID-19 cases, all of whom are currently in home isolation. None of the patients has a recent travel history, suggesting localised transmission. The affected individuals include a 15-year-old boy, a 2-year-old girl, and others aged between 28 and 72 years from different localities such as Vatva, Bhopal, Narol, Danilimda, Baharampura, and Navrangpura. Health officials have emphasised the importance of adhering to precautionary measures as early signs of community transmission become evident. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has intensified monitoring and urged residents to follow safety protocols, including mask-wearing and social distancing.

Mumbai Reports 20 Active Cases, Continuous Surveillance Underway

Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has confirmed 20 active COVID-19 cases within its limits. The civic body stated that while the spread remains sporadic, robust surveillance mechanisms are in place across municipal wards. The majority of the patients are stable and recovering at home, though 16 are currently receiving hospital care. 

Genomic sequencing of positive samples is being carried out to track emerging variants, and instances of co-infection with viruses like H3N2 have been observed. The BMC has reiterated the significance of COVID-appropriate behaviour and is also monitoring Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) in tandem with COVID-19 trends. Notably, Mumbai reported two COVID-related deaths earlier this year, both involving patients with pre-existing health conditions.

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Puducherry Confirms 12 New Cases

In a separate development, Puducherry’s Health and Family Welfare Services Department confirmed 12 new COVID-19 cases over the past week. Director V. Ravichandran assured that all necessary arrangements, including ventilator-equipped isolation wards, are in place at key government hospitals. The local health authorities are closely coordinating with the NCDC and the Union Health Ministry to monitor developments.

Government Urges Vigilance Without Panic

Authorities across India emphasise that while the current spike is not alarming, it requires continued vigilance. Testing, contact tracing, and genome sequencing remain critical tools to track and contain the spread. The public is advised to maintain respiratory hygiene, avoid crowded spaces, and seek medical consultation in case of flu-like symptoms.

As the region witnesses an uptick in cases driven by emerging subvariants, India’s public health machinery is proactively responding to keep the situation under control.

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