Latest news with #Chafle
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Covid-19 resurgence: Cases cross 250 mark in India, Kerala records highest numbers; experts cite humidity as cause
Amid the fears of a sudden spike in COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and even China, the Ministry of Health conducted a review meeting on Monday to understand the current situation in the country. Currently, the situation is reported to be 'under control', with just 257 active cases reported across the country as of May 19, 2025. The review meeting was chaired by the Director General of Health Services, and the expert meeting included officials from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Emergency Medical Relief (EMR) division, Disaster Management Cell, and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). A report by PTI: 'Almost all of these cases are mild, with no hospitalisation required.' The meeting was followed by reports of an alarming spike in COVID-19 cases in Singapore and Hong Kong, which is linked to new Omicron subvariants like JN.1 and its descendants. Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu report the most cases Talking about the number of cases in India, since May 12, Kerala has reported the highest number of cases (69), followed by Maharashtra (44) and Tamil Nadu (34). While other states, including Karnataka, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Sikkim, have witnessed low single-digit case counts. Why is Kerala the hotspot of COVID-19 cases With Kerala reporting the highest number of cases, why is it the hotspot of COVID-19 every time? Kerala is experiencing a higher number of COVID-19 cases due to the spread of the JN.1 Omicron subvariant. Some foreign travellers visit Kerala and travel widely across various districts and are later found to be infected with COVID-19. Since COVID-19 infection is transmitted from one person to another, the cases are surging in Kerala, says Dr Harish Chafle, Senior Consultant Intensivist, Chest Physician, Bronchoscopist and sleep disorders specialist, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai. But does the climate in Kerala have a role to play? Is it another question? Dr. Chafle clarifies, 'Humidity and fluctuating temperatures are certainly causing weak immunity in people, making them prone to Covid-19 infection.' ⚠️ BREAKING: China 🇨🇳 Hit by New COVID Surge Driven by Omicron XDV and NB.1.8.1 Variants Hospitals Overwhelmed, Beijing Warns of Delayed Response Symptoms and preventive measures The virus is transmitted via coming in contact with the respiratory droplets of one who is infected through coughing and sneezing, and touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. 'If you are someone who is in a higher risk category, or you stay in a crowded area or exhibit symptoms, you must wear a mask. Also, get yourself checked immediately with the doctor if you have a viral respiratory infection and take precautions appropriately if you are in a high-risk group or see a spike in cases,' suggests Dr Divya Joshi, Consultant in Infectious Diseases, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road. 'Avoid travelling to hot spots in Kerala. Masks should be made compulsory again in India for everyone,' advises Dr. Chafle. Symptoms of JN. 1 variant of COVID-19 Dry cough Runny or blocked nose Headache Sore throat Fever Fatigue or exhaustion Loss of taste or smell Diarrhoea To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Covid-19 resurgence: JN.1 variant drives surge in new cases in Southeast Asia—what's causing the sudden spike?
Is COVID-19 back in India? After almost five years, the virus is here again to haunt us. Currently, Southeast Asia, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand, is witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases. However, India is no exception; the country has reported 257 mild cases so far, as of May 20, 2025. According to PTI, India reported 257 fresh COVID-19 cases and is currently monitoring the situation minutely. However, most of the cases are mild in nature with no unusual severity. On the other hand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, and even China have reported a spike in a fresh wave of COVID-19 cases over the past few weeks. But what led to the sudden spike in cases in Asia? Reasons behind the sudden spike in COVID-19 cases in Asia According to Singapore's health ministry, from April 27 to May 3, 2025, the estimated number of COVID-19 cases suddenly jumped to 14,200 cases from 11,100 reported last week. Over the same time, the average daily count of COVID-19 hospitalisations rose from 102 to 133; however, the average daily Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases reduced from three to two cases. A similar incident was noted in Thailand, where the cases spiked from 6,000 on May 17 to 33,030 on May 11, as per the Department of Disease Control. While something similar was noted in Hong Kong as well. Attributing what are the reasons that led to the sudden spike in cases in these countries, the Singapore health authorities mentioned linking it to the waning immunity among the population and the spread of new variants, such as LF.7 and NB.1.8, which are descendants of the JN.1 variant that emerged in 2024. Who is at risk of the JN.1 variant? The report went on to mention that as the new cases are being reported, it is an indication that protection from previous infections or vaccinations is gradually decreasing over time. 'Since the COVID-19 cases are rapidly rising in the country because of the JN.1 variant, it's crucial to adopt preventive measures to prevent the infection,' says Dr. Harish Chafle, Senior Consultant Intensivist, Chest Physician, Bronchoscopist, and Sleep Disorders Specialist at Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai. 'Even though the infection is mild, follow these precautionary measures,' he adds. ⚠️ BREAKING: China 🇨🇳 Hit by New COVID Surge Driven by Omicron XDV and NB.1.8.1 Variants Hospitals Overwhelmed, Beijing Warns of Delayed Response Importance of masks and handwashing It is necessary to wear a mask when in crowded or poorly ventilated areas. 'Wash your hands with soap and water, and also sanitise them after touching any surface or object. Don't come in contact with individuals who are sick. Take the COVID-19 vaccination and booster shot without any further delay. Seek timely attention if you notice symptoms such as fever, cough, headaches, and sore throat,' advises Dr. Chafle. 'Masks should be made compulsory at heavily crowded public places,' he adds. However, according to Dr. Divya Joshi, consultant in infectious diseases at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, there is no need to hurry to buy any masks just yet. Indian health authorities say there is no cause for alarm as the COVID-19 situation seems to be well under control, and the circulating viral strains do not appear to be more virulent than before. You could still go wrong preparing yourself, especially if you have compromised immunity or pre-existing conditions. 'If you are in a higher risk category or are in a crowded venue or exhibit symptoms, wear a mask. Check with the doctor if you have a viral respiratory infection and take precautions appropriately if you are in a high-risk group or see a spike in cases,' she adds. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
Indian Express
20-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Shilpa Shirodkar tests positive for Covid-19; experts share symptoms to look out for amid surge driven by JN.1 variant
Shilpa Shirodkar has tested positive for Covid-19, which has once again been on the rise in South Asian countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, and India. The actor apprised everyone of the news on Instagram, where she wrote, 'Hello People! I've been tested positive for COVID. Stay safe and wear your masks!' According to multiple reports, the resurgence is driven by newly evolved Omicron sub-variants, particularly JN.1, with India reporting 257 cases on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's Covid-19 dashboard. Considering the rise in cases of the JN.1 variant, we consulted experts to understand the cause and precautions to stay safe in 2025. This variant is distinguished by its heightened transmissibility and potential to evade immune responses, even in the vaccinated population, said Dr Harish Chafle, senior consultant, intensivist chest physician, bronchoscopist and sleep disorders specialist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai. JN.1 is a sublineage of the Omicron variant and is currently under close observation by the World Health Organization (WHO), said Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, pulmonologist, director pulmonology, MD, MRCP, Fortis Hospital, Faridabad. It has been linked to recent infection surges in Singapore and Hong Kong. 'In India, while no new wave has been confirmed, health authorities are monitoring the situation as cases reappear,' said Dr Jha. While it doesn't appear to cause more severe illness compared to earlier strains, its rapid spread is concerning, especially among vulnerable populations (those with comorbidities, advanced age, and weakened immunity), pointed out Dr Chafle. Symptoms can include fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, loss of smell and taste, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, which are consistent with those reported for other Omicron subvariants, said Dr Jha. 'The severity of illness often depends more on an individual's immunity and overall health than the specific variant. Omicron is the mildest variant that has attacked various countries, so panic is unnecessary. Taking usual precautions will be helpful for sure,' Dr Jha emphasised. To prevent COVID-19, timely vaccination, including booster doses, wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, maintaining personal and hand hygiene, and avoiding being around sick people are necessary. A post shared by Shilpa Shirodkar Ranjit (@shilpashirodkar73) Remember the three golden rules- masking, social distancing, and hand sanitising. 'Moreover, being vigilant while travelling in India or abroad is necessary. Wearing a mask is the need of the hour to protect from Covid-19. Get immediate diagnosis and take treatment if you have symptoms such as fever, sore throat, runny nose, and cough. Don't delay treatment and follow the advice given by the expert; eat home-cooked healthy food to boost immunity,' said Dr Chafle. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
