New Delhi, May 27, 2025 — India has witnessed a notable rise in active COVID-19 cases over the past week, with numbers increasing from 257 to 1,009, according to the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry. This spike marks a fourfold jump and has prompted renewed public health vigilance across several states.
According to the Health Ministry COVID variants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, were found in India recently. One case of NB.1.8.1 was reported in Tamil Nadu in April, while four cases of LF.7 were detected in May. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified both LF.7 and NB.1.8 subvariants as Variants Under Monitoring (VUMs), not as Variants of Concern (VOCs) or Variants of Interest (VOIs). These variants are reportedly behind the surge in COVID-19 cases in China and other parts of Asia.COVID-19 cases | WHO COVID-19 dashboard
Health officials attribute the sudden rise to a mix of factors, including new Omicron sub-variants and a seasonal uptick in respiratory infections. While the majority of cases remain mild and manageable at home, the government has urged citizens—especially the elderly and immunocompromised—to adhere to basic preventive measures like mask-wearing in crowded spaces and frequent hand hygiene.
States like Maharashtra, Kerala, and Delhi have reported clusters of new infections, though no widespread restrictions have been reimposed so far. Hospitals remain well-equipped, and vaccination coverage continues to be high, with over 90% of eligible adults having received at least two doses.
Dr. Rajesh Bhushan, Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, stated, “There is no cause for panic. We are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to handle any surge.”
The Health Ministry also reminded the public to avoid spreading misinformation and to rely only on official sources for updates. Citizens are encouraged to get booster doses if they haven’t already, and to report any flu-like symptoms to local health authorities.
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