COVID-19 Cases Resurface in India, Odisha Sees First Case in 2.5 Years

India is witnessing a mild resurgence of COVID-19, with 257 active cases reported nationwide as of May 19, 2025, according to the Health Ministry. States such as Kerala (69 cases), Maharashtra (44), and Tamil Nadu (34) are seeing the most activity. Odisha reported its first COVID case in over two years, raising concerns about virus re-emergence.

KEM Hospital in Mumbai has confirmed two COVID-related deaths, prompting local alerts. However, health authorities, including ICMR and NCDC, assure the public that the situation remains under control with no signs of a large-scale outbreak.

This comes as new Omicron subvariants like JN.1 cause fresh waves in Singapore and Hong Kong. Singapore saw a 28% weekly rise in infections, while Hong Kong recorded 31 COVID-related deaths—the highest in a year.

Officials in India are ramping up surveillance, emphasizing early detection and continued vaccination. The public is advised to remain cautious but not alarmed, with reminders to follow safety measures and maintain hygiene. While numbers are low, the sudden emergence signals that the virus is far from gone.