Is it COVID-19 or just a viral fever? Cases spike in Delhi, UP & WB; experts reveal signs to watch out for

Time of India

2 days ago

The fever is back and so is the panic! India is currently seeing an upward spiral in COVID-19 cases after spreading in Southeast Asian countries including Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, on Wednesday, the total number of active cases in the country stands at 4,302, with nearly 300 fresh Covid cases reported in the last 24 hours. Moreover, Delhi, UP, West Bengal, and Gujarat are seeing a gradual rise in infections.
The highest number of cases are reported in Kerala, and two more deaths linked to COVID-19 were recorded in the country over the last 24 hours, taking the total tally to 7 for 2025. As per PTI, the current surge in cases is driven by four variants, including LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1.
Notably, a new variant called NB.1.8.1 is a new COVID-19 subvariant that has been detected in the country.
COVID Cases Continue To Rise In India📌Total Active Cases- 4302Source: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, COVID DashboardAs on June 4, 2025#COVID19 #COVID_19 #Corona #COVIDIndia #India #Kerala #Delhi #WestBengal #Maharashtra #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/KusdfvDhW8
Is it COVID-19 or just a fever?
With the emergence of a new COVID-19 subvariant, NB.1.8.1, recently detected in the country, concerns are rising once again.
Amidst this, there can be cases if someone in your family tested positive. Your neighbor's child has been coughing for days. You have a sore throat, a mild headache, and that familiar fatigue.
The weather is shifting, and seasonal illnesses are on the rise, but is it just a seasonal fever — or is COVID quietly making a comeback? 'Having a fever can be a symptom of many illnesses, including COVID-19, but it is not definitive on its own. COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, often presents with a range of symptoms beyond fever, such as cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, and body aches,' says Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai.
It's important to note that some individuals may experience mild or no symptoms at all. According to Dr. Agarwal, 'If you have a fever, the best course of action is to monitor other symptoms you may be experiencing. Along with viral infections and other infections like gastro, dengue, and malaria, typhoid cases are also rising. It is always important to meet your doctor.'
Who is at risk? Check the groupwise list
Individuals at higher risk of severe COVID-19 can be grouped into several categories. Older adults, particularly those 65 and above, are at significantly higher risk. 'People with underlying medical conditions such as asthma, cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung diseases (including COPD, bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, and pulmonary hypertension), diabetes, heart conditions, HIV with an unsuppressed viral load, and obesity are also at higher risk,' says Dr. Divya Joshi, consultant in infectious diseases at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road.
'Additionally, those receiving immunosuppressive medications with existing cancer, autoimmune conditions, solid organ transplants, and bone marrow transplants are a vulnerable population,' adds Dr. Joshi.
Preventive tips for being safe amid the COVID-19 rise
In addition, maintain good hygiene practices such as washing your hands frequently and wearing a mask if you suspect you might be contagious. If your fever persists or worsens, or if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, seek medical attention promptly. Remember, only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis and guidance tailored to your situation.
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