New Delhi: India reported 764 new COVID-19 cases and 4 deaths on Friday, with Kerala leading the surge at 192 cases, followed by Gujarat with 107. The total active infections in the country reached 5,364, as per the Union Health Ministry. The breakdown of deaths includes two in Kerala, one in Punjab, and one in Karnataka. The Centre has conducted mock drills to evaluate hospital preparedness in response to the rising cases.
India's active COVID-19 cases have increased to 5,755, with 391 new infections and four deaths reported in the last 24 hours. The fatalities include a pregnant woman and three elderly individuals with pre-existing conditions. The resurgence is linked to new variants like LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1. Since May 22, cases have risen sharply, particularly in Kerala, New Delhi, West Bengal, and Maharashtra. The government is urging states to ensure essential medical supplies and advising vulnerable populations to seek medical attention while recommending preventive measures like mask-wearing.
Maharashtra accounted for 114 new cases, totaling 1,276 since January and raising the death toll to 18, with Pune and Mumbai reporting the highest numbers. West Bengal saw 58 new cases and 91 recoveries, leaving 596 active cases and maintaining a single death toll. Delhi reported 30 new cases, increasing active infections to 592 without any new deaths, resulting in a total of seven fatalities since the start of the year.
Chhattisgarh reported 50 cases following recent screenings due to infections elsewhere. A total of 1,183 tests were performed, confirming 50 positive results for the virus. The continuous rise in cases across multiple states highlights the ongoing challenges India faces with COVID-19, prompting increased surveillance and preparedness measures.
Haryana recorded 31 new COVID-19 cases, primarily from Gurugram (9) and Faridabad (11), with additional cases in Karnal, Jhajjar, Panipat, Yamunanagar, Hisar, and Panchkula. The state has 87 active cases and a total of 151 cumulative cases. Most infections are mild and treated at home; experts note that while COVID-19 is less severe, occasional surges may occur as the virus evolves and remains endemic, but there is reassurance that there is no cause for alarm.
