Corona Surge in India: Active Cases Near 4,000, Kerala and Maharashtra Hit Hardest

India is grappling with a sudden spike in COVID-19 cases, with active infections nearing 4,000 as of June 2, 2025, driven by new Omicron subvariants LF.7 and NB.1.8.1. The Union Health Ministry has urged vigilance but assures the situation is under control, with most infections being mild. Posts on X reflect public concern, with calls for masking and testing as the nation braces for a potential wave after months of low numbers.

Rapid Rise in Cases

The Health Ministry reported 3,758 active cases on June 2, up from 1,009 a week earlier, marking a 1,300% surge in just 10 days. Kerala tops the list with 1,336 cases, followed by Maharashtra at 467, Delhi at 375, and Karnataka at 234. The rise, linked to LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 subvariants, mirrors trends in Southeast Asia, where Singapore and Hong Kong report high positivity rates. X users are sharing updates, with one noting, “Kerala’s cases are worrying, time to mask up!” Health officials emphasize that these variants cause mild symptoms, with low hospitalization rates.

State-Wise Impact and Deaths

Kerala has reported six deaths since January, while Maharashtra recorded seven, including one on May 31, mostly among patients with comorbidities like cancer or diabetes. Delhi and Karnataka each reported one death recently, with victims including a 60-year-old woman in Delhi and a 63-year-old in Karnataka. Other states like Gujarat (265 cases), Tamil Nadu (185), and West Bengal (205) are seeing upticks. X posts highlight local responses, with Kerala mandating masks in hospitals and Maharashtra activating COVID wards in Mumbai.

Government and Health Response

The Health Ministry’s war room, including the National Centre for Disease Control, is monitoring the surge through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program. Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George urged caution for high-risk groups, while Odisha’s health secretary emphasized mild symptoms per ICMR reports. Testing has increased, with Mumbai and Rajasthan conducting genome sequencing to track variants. X users praise these efforts, with one stating, “Hospitals are ready, no need to panic.”

Public Caution Urged

While the situation is manageable, officials recommend masks, social distancing, and testing for flu-like symptoms. Booster shots are advised for the elderly and those with comorbidities, as vaccines still prevent severe illness. The surge, driven by waning immunity, underscores the need for vigilance. As X discussions grow, with users urging, “Don’t ignore the spike,” India is balancing preparedness with efforts to avoid panic, drawing on lessons from past waves