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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.
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Is COVID-19 making a comeback in India? Experts weigh in; know how different JN.1 variant is from older subvariants
Is COVID-19 back? After over five long years of wreaking havoc across the globe, another variant, JN.1 of COVID-19, is gripping the South-Asian countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, China, and Thailand. However, India is no exception, as 164 fresh cases of COVID-19 have been reported. This has left people concerned about the dangers of the new subvariant. The surge in cases is largely attributed to the spread of new Omicron subvariants, including JN.1 and its associated descendants, leading to increased vigilance among health authorities. The rise in cases is linked to waning immunity, with a periodic wave that is anticipated. After Indian actress Shilpa Shirodkar revealed that she tested positive for COVID-19 on her Instagram on Monday, the concerns in India spiked even more. However, on May 19, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported that currently there are 93 active COVID-19 cases in India, and the country has not observed a significant rise domestically. But should India be concerned? How different is the JN.1 strain from earlier strains of COVID-19? JN.1 is a descendant of the Omicron BA.2.86 lineage, which was identified in August 2023. Additionally, the World Health Organisation (WHO) labelled it as a Variant of Interest in 2023. 'This variant doesn't cause any fatal complications, unlike other variants of COVID-19, such as breathlessness,' says Dr Harish Chafle, Senior Consultant Intensivist, Chest Physician, Bronchoscopist and sleep disorders specialist, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai. The JN.1 variant, a sublineage of Omicron, is currently contributing to a rise in COVID-19 cases across parts of Asia, including India. While, according to Dr. Sheela Chakravarthy, Director - Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, 'Experts add that the variants being seen in India are not more virulent than before. Yet, the authorities are keeping a watchful eye on the situation and are bracing for a probable increase in cases of flu-like symptoms in the coming months from variants LF.7 and NB.1.8, which are derivatives of JN.1.' Should India be concerned amid the surge in the JN.1 strain of COVID-19? The current surge in the number of COVID-19 cases has become a growing matter of concern across India. According to a News18 report, doctors in Mumbai have noted a slight uptick in mild infections, particularly among young individuals. However, there is no indication of a fresh wave so far. 'India does not appear to be worried much about the JN.1 variant of COVID-19 yet. The Health Ministry states that the COVID-19 situation in India is in check, with just 257 active cases as of May 19, largely mild and not severe enough to need hospitalisation,' adds Dr. Chakravarthy. Symptoms of JN.1 variant of COVID-19: Dr. Chafle lists the symptoms of the JN.1 variant and says, 'The symptoms that one can suffer from are cough, cold, runny nose, fever, gastrointestinal trouble, loss of smell and taste, fatigue, and headache.' 'So, don't panic and ensure to take all the necessary precautions recommended by the expert. Even though the variant is mild, it is imperative to take caution,' he adds. Covid-19 Update: India reports 164 new cases this week—69 in Kerala, 44 in Maharashtra, 34 in Tamil Nadu. Total active cases: 257 . All cases are mild, but LF.7 & NB.1.8 subvariants are under watch. Stay safe: mask up, wash hands, and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.… Tips to prevent COVID-19 infection To prevent COVID-19 infection, follow the protocol mentioned below: Mask up Sanitise your hands Mainatian social distancing Make sure to get vaccinated Take a booster dose Don't skip vaccination, fearing the side effects. Pay attention to your well-being Isolate yourself from others if you have symptoms of COVID-19 Avoid being in crowded places and around sick people Maintain good personal hygiene Be attentive when it comes to your health
