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NDTV
3 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Covid-19 In India: 4,026 Active Cases, 5 Deaths; What We Know So Far
India's active Covid-19 cases have climbed to 4,026, according to the Health Ministry's Covid-19 dashboard. According to official data, 65 fresh cases have been reported in the past 24 hours. A total of 5 covid-related deaths have also been reported in the country till now. The top 5 most affected states during the current resurgence of Covid-19 are Kerala (1,416), Maharashtra (494), Gujarat (397), Delhi (393), and West Bengal (372). As we observe the current resurgence of Covid-19 in India, with fresh cases being reported daily, it is essential to remain vigilant and informed. The new, highly contagious COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1, along with LF.7, has been circulating rapidly in India and many other Asian countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also confirmed that NB.1.8.1 has triggered a sharp rise in hospitalisations across China. The NB.1.8.1 strain has also been detected in the US. Health experts in the US have emphasised that NB.1.8.1 does not appear to cause severe illness. However, experts are raising concerns about the variant's rapid spread in China and parts of Asia, where it has already become the dominant strain. Should you be worried? "There's no need to panic, but exercising caution is essential. A couple of deaths have been reported, so can't take it lightly," said Dr. Sharad Joshi, Director & HOD, Pulmonology and Paediatric Pulmonology, Max Healthcare. "While the symptoms are typically mild to moderate, it remains highly contagious. Therefore, practice good respiratory hygiene to control the spread," the expert emphasised. About NB.1.8.1 and its symptoms NB.1.8.1 is a descendant of the JN.1 variant which belongs to the omicron family. Like other omicron sub-variants, NB.1.8.1 causes mild illness. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, loss of appetite, body aches, fatigue, and runny nose. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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First Post
27-05-2025
- Health
- First Post
Active Covid cases in India cross 1,000: Should you get booster vaccine, wear masks?
As per the latest update, India has 1,010 active Covid cases, with Kerala leading at 430, followed by Maharashtra with 210, according to Union government data. Amid the recent rise, concerns are growing over booster shots and protective measures like wearing masks and social distancing. With cases climbing, health officials are urging people to follow basic precautions, especially to protect vulnerable groups read more With cases climbing, health officials stress the need to stick to basic precautions. Reuters/File Photo Covid-19 cases have increased across the country, and so have people's concerns. Do we need booster shots? Is it time to bring back masks? As of Monday, May 26, India has 1,010 active Covid cases. Kerala tops the list with 430 active cases, according to data shared by the Union government. Maharashtra is next with 210 active cases, including 154 reported in the past week. Delhi has reported 99 new cases, taking its total to 104. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD ALSO READ | New Covid-19 variants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, detected in India: Should you be worried? Should you start wearing a mask again? In this explainer, we look at some of the key questions around the recent surge in Covid cases - whether a booster shot is needed, if masks should be used again, which states are seeing a rise in infections, and whether there is a reason to worry. Let's get you answers to these questions and more. Covid-19 cases in India: Should you get a booster dose and wear masks? It is worth noting that two new coronavirus subvariants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, are being linked to the recent rise in Covid-19 cases in China and parts of Asia, as per reports. The World Health Organization (Who) has placed both variants under its 'Variants Under Monitoring' list. This means they are being closely watched but have not yet been categorised as 'Variants of Concern' or 'Variants of Interest'. The Health Ministry has confirmed that both variants have been found in the country. They are offshoots of the JN.1 variant. With cases climbing, health officials stress the need to stick to basic precautions, especially to protect vulnerable groups. While symptoms remain mild to moderate in most cases, older adults and those with weak immune systems are still at higher risk of severe illness. As of May 26, India has 1,010 active Covid cases. Reuters/File Photo This has raised fresh concerns around booster vaccines and other protective measures. What do experts think? Has the government issued any new guidance? At the moment, there are no fresh national instructions about booster doses. Health officials maintain that there is no need to panic, but suggest people wear masks, cover their mouths and noses when sneezing or coughing, and practise social distancing, especially around those more at risk. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Dr Sharad Joshi, Director and Head of Pulmonology and Paediatric Pulmonology, Max Healthcare, told NDTV, 'Presently there is no recommendation for a vaccine booster dose. We must wait for government guidelines and proper research'. On safety measures, he told the media outlet that it is important to 'wear a mask, cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and maintain social distancing'. He also advised mask use in crowded or closed spaces and suggested regular handwashing. Dr Piyush Ranjan, a professor at AIIMS, told News18 that booster doses are not urgently needed for everyone. However, they remain important for older adults and those with underlying conditions. 'Given the mild nature of current cases and the absence of a significant surge in India, booster doses for the general population are not urgently necessary but should be encouraged for those who have not received a booster in over a year, as waning immunity is a key driver of current surges,' he said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Meanwhile, Dr Narayana Subramaniam, Senior Consultant and Director of Head and Neck Surgery and Oncology, and Director of Clinical Innovation at Sparsh Hospitals, told South First that annual Covid-19 vaccines are advised for those at risk of serious illness, especially those over 65. Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National IMA COVID Task Force in Kerala, told the publication that another vaccine dose 'is unlikely to offer long-term protection for most people. By the time a new variant appears, the protection from that dose may no longer be effective'. State-wise breakdown of Covid cases in India: Should you be worried? As of Monday, May 26, India has 1,010 active Covid cases. Kerala leads with 430 active cases, according to data from the Union government. Maharashtra follows with 210 active cases, including 154 reported in the past week. Delhi has added 99 new cases, bringing its total to 104. Other states reporting infections include Gujarat (83), Tamil Nadu (69), Karnataka (47), Uttar Pradesh (15), Rajasthan (13), West Bengal (12), Haryana (9), Puducherry (9), Andhra Pradesh (4), Madhya Pradesh (2), Telangana (1), Chhattisgarh (1), and Goa (1). On Friday, the Delhi government issued an advisory asking hospitals to be ready, ensuring beds, oxygen supplies, essential medicines, and working equipment like ventilators and BiPAP machines are available. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said there is no need to panic about Covid-19 cases and reassured that hospitals are prepared if cases rise. 'We have details of the Covid-19 cases. Our hospitals have all the facilities. We have also issued an advisory,' she said. 'We have analysed the scenario and there is no panic situation.' Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Monday that the current virus strain is not 'serious' but urged caution. 'We should be prepared for everything. There should be no problem for oxygen, ventilators, testing kits and wards. Their availability must be ensured,' he said. Health officials have said that most current cases are mild and are being treated at home. For now, experts say there is no cause for panic, but staying alert, especially to protect vulnerable groups, is important.
NDTV
26-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
New Covid-19 Variants LF.7 And NB.1.8 Detected In India: Over 1000 Active Cases; What Should You Do
Amid the resurgence of Covid-19 cases in Asia, India has logged 1,009 active covid cases as of May 26. Delhi has reported 104 cases, out of which 99 were reported in the last week. According to the Health Ministry, new covid variants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 have been detected in India. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies LF.7 and NB.1.8 subvariants as "Variants Under Monitoring", not as "Variants of Concern or Variants of Interest". According to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), one case of NB.1.8.1 was detected in Tamil Nadu in April, whereas four cases of LF.7 were identified in Gujarat in May. These variants have also contributed to a surge in China, Singapore and Hong Kong over the past few weeks. LF.7 and NB.1.8: What we know so far New variants, LF.7 and NB.1.8 are descendants of the JN.1 variant that are circulating rapidly. "There's no need to panic, but exercising caution is essential. A couple of deaths have been reported, so can't take it lightly. It is important to practice caution," says Dr. Sharad Joshi, Director & HOD, Pulmonology and Paediatric Pulmonology, Max Healthcare. "To protect ourselves and those around us, it's important to practice good respiratory hygiene. This includes wearing a mask, covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and maintaining a safe distance where possible. It may be wise to avoid non-essential travel, large gatherings, and outings for the time being," advises Dr. Joshi. Till now, Kerala has reported maximum cases with 430 coronavirus cases, followed by Maharashtra with 209 cases.
NDTV
21-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Covid-19 Cases In India: No Need To Panic, Says Expert; Do Not Ignore These Symptoms Of JN.1
A fresh wave of Covid-19 is sweeping across Asia, with Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand witnessing a rise in infections. India has also reported 257 active covid cases. Kerala, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have recorded an uptick in active cases over the past few weeks. The driver behind the surge of Covid-19 cases in Asia is reportedly the JN.1 variant and its descendants, particularly LF.7 and NB.1.8, which are a subvariant of the Omicron lineage. "Currently, we are seeing an increase in cases attributed to JN.1, which is a subvariant of Omicron. While the symptoms tend to be mild, including fever, cold, cough, and loss of smell or taste, it remains highly contagious," said Dr. Sharad Joshi, Director & HOD, Pulmonology and Paediatric Pulmonology, Max Healthcare JN.1 variant: What we know so far According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was first detected in the US in September 2023. It is a descendant of the BA.2.86 variant (an Omicron sub-variant). The World Health Organisation has classified the JN.1 strain as a "variant of interest" and not a "variant of concern" yet. What are the symptoms of JN.1 strain? Fever, sore throat, runny nose, headaches, and muscle weakness are some common symptoms of this variant. However, unlike other variants, JN.1 can also cause gastrointestinal problems. Diarrhea, loss of appetite, persistent nausea, and extreme fatigue are a few unique symptoms of JN.1. Should you be worried? "There's no need to panic, but exercising caution is essential. It may be wise to avoid non-essential travel, large gatherings, and outings for the time being. A couple of deaths have been reported, so can't take it lightly. It is important to practice caution," Dr Joshi added. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Time of India
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Music is helping reimagine Delhi's heritage and culture of the havelis'
A 2023 study suggests that the newer generations are willing to spend on experiences over material things, and there has been a boom in experiential consumption As you walk into a haveli, it's hard not to be awestruck by its old-world charm. The intricately carved aalas and taaks evoke nostalgia, while the expanse of the courtyard and high ceilings stir the imagination. But it's the ghungroo, tabla, and soft ambient sounds that brings the space to life. Today, curators and artistes are reimagining these historic havens, turning them into vibrant sanctuaries for music and culture. 'Havelis offer spaces for new forms music' You Can Also Check: Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi 'Thumris and ghazals were born and popularised in the mehfils held in these havelis,' says Sharad Joshi, musician and co-founder of Music in the Haveli . He adds, 'We are reimagining the cultural heritage of havelis – which were once spaces for creative innovation and nurtured new forms arts.' Co-founder Shruti Sinha, adds, 'We are using the havelis to do the exact same thing: provide a space for new forms of local, global and blended music to be created and performed. The idea is to reanimate the haveli to be as alive as it used to be once upon a time instead of a static, unused space.' Such spaces are always interesting to perform at. As people enter the haveli, they are already open to discover something new. So, when I perform my music in a haveli set-up, I can feel that my audience is really 'listening' Musician Abhishek Sekhri, who goes by the moniker Goya 'Provide a sense of grandeur' 'We are not reviving but creating a culture of intimate mehfils,' says Abu Sufiyan, founder of Tales of City , who recently curated Jahaanuma Mehfil in a 170-year-old haveli Qaiser Manzil in Kucha Chelan. He adds, 'The thought behind creating an experience in a living haveli, inhabited by the Bakht family, is to celebrate the shared heritage and the tehzeeb of Shahjahanabad.' A glimpse from Jahaanuma Mehfil, held at Kucha Chelan's Qaiser Manzil Vidyun Goel, director of Haveli Dharampura, says, "Immersive experiences involving music and dance at havelis is opening up our heritage to the entire world. Along with Indian performing arts, dinners, kite-flying and haveli walkthrough sessions, every aspect of Purani Dilli culture is celebrated. The idea is to transport people back in time, and the wholesome experience helps promoting musical traditions as well. The haveli is like a stage for the performers.' 'The haveli is like a stage for the performers' (Pic: @havelidharampura) Ashna Khanna, from Kathika Cultural Centre and Museum, says, 'At restored havelis in Imli Mohalla, music is not just an event but a journey into the heart of heritage. Musicians often tell us that performing here feels like stepping back into a time when music was shared in baithaks and havelis. The courtyard setting, with its graceful archways, traditional colonnades and graceful overhanging chhajjas, creates a natural acoustic chamber that enhances sound and lends a sense of grandeur.' Performing in a living haveli was a different experience. Sharing personal space with the community, opening it up for a mehfil is a great contribution to preserving heritage Shaheen Salmani, who sang ghazals like Ranjish Hi Sahi, Hothon Se Chhu Lo Tum, Salona Sa Sajan Hai Aur Main Hun at Qaiser Manzil Sharad, adds, 'We find that people are connected to their creative side when they are in a haveli or a heritage space. A musical performance in such a space and in such a state of mind of the audience only elevates their experience.' 'Kathika offers that rare blend of aesthetic, heritage and community that allows both traditional and contemporary music to thrive in harmony' (Pics: @kathikaolddelhi) 'Travellers want at least one highlight experience during trips' Meera Ali, co-curator of Jahaan-e-Khusrau, says, 'Today's travellers often seek at least one meaningful highlight in their trips – especially one tied to heritage or culture. They are eager to know more about their culture and heritage, often feeling they have missed out on these experiences growing up as most families have spent time travelling abroad. Now people prefer short trips to destinations within India (like Lucknow, Neemrana, Udaipur, Jaipur) mainly for the experience of heritage and if that is linked with music, it becomes more attractive.' Abhishek Sekhri urf Goya played his tracks like Dilli, Mad Scientist and Naad at Kathika recently, as a part of Music in the Haveli project (Pic: Kaatayaayni Pandey) 'As these experiences become popular, interest will grow among those who appreciate heritage and art,' says Sunetra Ghose, who recently attended Goya's music event in a restored haveli in Sita Ram Bazar. The tickets of such experiences start from Rs 2,500 and can go upto Rs 10,000, depending on the space and the artiste
