Kerala Records 182 Covid-19 Cases In May, Health Minister Urges Caution
Last Updated:
Kottayam topped the list with 57 cases of Covid-19 in Kerala, Ernakulam with 34 cases, and Thiruvananthapuram with 30 cases.
As the state reports a rise in Covid-19 cases, with 182 new infections recorded in May, Kerala Health Minister Veena George has advised the public to remain vigilant and cautious.
While addressing the media on the state's preparedness, the Kerala CM noted that the situation in countries like Hong Kong and Singapore, where the Omicron JN1 sub-variants LF.7 and NB.1.8, which have a higher capacity to spread the disease, are driving a surge in cases in Southeast Asian regions.
'Covid cases are being reported in large numbers in South East Asian countries and there is a possibility of an increase in Covid in Kerala as well," the Minister said, adding that 'while the severity is not high, self-defence is important."
In Kerala's Covid-19 tally for May, Kottayam topped the list with 57 cases, Ernakulam with 34 cases, and Thiruvananthapuram with 30 cases. The remaining cases were reported from other districts across the state.
Health Minister Veena George convened a high-level meeting of the State Rapid Response Team (RRT) to assess the Covid-19 situation. She said that it was decided in the meeting that Covid-19 testing will be increased for symptomatic individuals; hospitals have been instructed to ensure availability of RTPCR kits and safety equipment and masks are now mandatory in hospitals, and health workers are required to wear them at all times.
George also advised the public to wear masks in public places. 'Those with symptoms such as a cold, sore throat, cough, and shortness of breath must wear masks. The elderly, pregnant women and those with serious illnesses should wear masks in public places and while travelling," she said.
'Unnecessary hospital visits should be avoided. It is better to wash hands with soap occasionally. Wherever you are treated, you should follow the protocol and ensure treatment in that hospital. The minister also clarified that it is not right to refer to some private hospitals when it is found that they are Covid-19," the Health Minister added.
George further reassured the public that while current Covid-19 variants are highly transmissible, they don't seem to cause severe illness. She stressed the importance of precautions, early testing, and mask-wearing to prevent a wider outbreak.
The RRT meeting also addressed the Nipah virus prevention efforts, concluding that the containment zone could be withdrawn as no further spread had been detected. Control room operations will continue as per protocol.
With the monsoon season approaching, the Health Department warned of a potential surge in waterborne diseases like dengue and leptospirosis. To prepare, the department will step up field-level monitoring and public health activities, especially with intermittent rain expected, said Veena George.
Watch India Pakistan Breaking News on CNN-News18. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated!
First Published:
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
37 minutes ago
- Time of India
Karnataka records 265 fresh COVID cases; active tally rise above 550
Karnataka recorded 265 new Covid-19 cases on Monday, pushing the state's positivity rate to 40.7%, according to the health department. With this, the total number of cases reported in the state this year has reached 1,220. In the last 24 hours, 650 tests were conducted—596 RT-PCR and 54 rapid antigen tests. The number of active cases in the state has risen to 559, with only two patients currently in intensive care. Meanwhile, a new Covid-19 variant, XFG, has been detected in India, based on data from INSACOG. So far, 163 cases of this variant have been identified across the country out of around 6,000 samples tested. The XFG variant, which contains four significant spike protein mutations, has seen rapid global transmission since it was first reported in Canada, according to a report in The Lancet . As of now, no XFG cases have been detected in Karnataka. Live Events As of the latest update, India currently has around 6,133 active COVID-19 cases, with six new deaths reported in the past 24 hours. This marks a resurgence following a previous decline in active cases. The states leading this wave include Kerala (approximately 1,950 active cases), Gujarat (822), West Bengal (693), Delhi (686), and Maharashtra (595). Most cases are mild and are being managed at home, although hospital preparedness remains high as health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely [With PTI inputs]
India.com
2 hours ago
- India.com
COVID 19 Cases in India: Active Cases Jump To 6491
COVID 19 Cases Rising In India Live Updates: India is once again witnessing an unsettling rise in COVID-19 cases, with the number of active infections climbing to 6491; according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's latest update as of 12:00 AM IST, June 9, 2025. As per May 2025 classifications by the World Health Organization (WHO), subvariants LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 are categorized as Variants Under Monitoring, meaning they are not yet deemed as Variants of Concern or Variants of Interest. However, these strains are suspected to be contributing to the rising infections not just in India but also across China and other parts of Asia. Despite the emergence of new subvariants, the JN.1 strain remains the most dominant, accounting for a staggering 53% of all positive cases across the country. According to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a case of NB.1.8.1 was detected in Tamil Nadu in April, while four cases of LF.7 were identified in Gujarat earlier this month. With the virus subtly shifting form and symptoms evolving, health authorities are urging the public to maintain precautionary measures, including hygiene, mask use in crowded places, and timely testing. Although hospitalisation remains low, experts warn that complacency could reverse progress. Stay informed, and if you're experiencing mild symptoms like fatigue, a sore throat, or gastrointestinal discomfort, it's best to test early and isolate to prevent further spread.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
10 superfoods loaded with zinc and vital nutrients for immunity
Zinc is a vital mineral that supports immunity, metabolism, wound healing, and overall health. However, many people unknowingly suffer from zinc deficiency, leading to various hidden symptoms. Here are 10 surprising signs that indicate your body might be lacking this essential nutrient. With the COVID-19 pandemic, having a healthy immune system has never been more essential. These nutrients such as zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron are all important in supporting your body's ability to combat infections, heal quicker, and remain resilient. Zinc, especially, is important for the manufacture of immune cells and the promotion of inflammatory reactions. By adding nutrient-rich superfoods to your diet, you can naturally boost your body's defence and stay healthier throughout the year. Here are 10 powerful superfoods packed with zinc and other essential nutrients for better immunity: 1. Pumpkin seeds Rich in zinc, magnesium, iron, and vitamin E, pumpkin seeds help strengthen immunity and reduce inflammation. 2. Spinach A rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, iron, and moderate amounts of zinc, spinach maintains immune cell function and antioxidant defenses. 3. Chickpeas (Chana) Rich in zinc, protein, folate, and iron, chickpeas enhance the repair and rebuilding of body tissues and enhance immune responses. 4. Cashew nuts Rich in zinc, healthy fats, copper, and magnesium, cashews feed the immune system and also sustain energy production. 5. Yogurt In addition to probiotics that boost gut health (and consequently, immunity), yogurt supplies zinc, vitamin B12, and calcium for overall vitality. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo 6. Mushrooms (particularly Shiitake and Button Mushrooms) Contain selenium, zinc, and vitamin D, which modulate immune responses and shield against oxidative stress. 7. Lentils (Masoor, Moong, etc.) A good vegetarian source of zinc, iron, protein, and folate, lentils help repair cells and enhance immune cell production. 8. Quinoa Provides zinc, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, making it an ideal food for balancing energy and immune function. 9. Dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) Rich in zinc and flavonoid antioxidants, dark chocolate is beneficial to immune function, but must be eaten in small amounts. 10. Almonds Rich in vitamin E, zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats, almonds guard cells against oxidative damage and fortify the body's natural barriers. Establishing a robust immune system is not the work of Band-Aids — it's a matter of continuing to provide your body with the proper foods for optimal nutrient support. Adding these zinc-containing superfoods into your regular foods is providing your body with what it takes to ward off, mend, and excel naturally. Together with well-balanced diets, proper hydration, stress control, and leading an active life, you will continue to ensure your strong immunity throughout the year. Dr. Partap Chauhan – Founder and Director of Jiva Ayurveda One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
