COVID-19 Update: India Reports 257 Active Cases; Health Ministry Reviews Preparedness

India currently has 257 active COVID-19 cases, most of which are mild and do not require hospitalization, according to official data. The highest number of recent infections has been reported from Kerala (69 cases), followed by Maharashtra (44) and Tamil Nadu (34). Other states such as Karnataka (8), Gujarat (6), Delhi (3), and one case each in Haryana, Rajasthan, and Sikkim have also logged fresh infections.

In Mumbai, two recent COVID-related deaths were reported at King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital. The deceased included a 14-year-old with kidney failure due to nephrotic syndrome and a 54-year-old cancer patient. Doctors confirmed both had severe comorbidities. Despite a slight rise in cases this month, the Bri hanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has said the situation is under control, and there is no cause for alarm.

Health authorities have instructed hospitals across the country to remain vigilant and monitor cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI). Surveillance is being carried out through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and ICMR networks to ensure early detection and response.

Globally, however, the situation is more concerning. In Singapore, COVID-19 cases jumped by 28%, rising from 11,100 in late April to 14,200 in early May. Hong Kong reported 31 COVID-related deaths in a single week—the highest in a year—with new weekly infections climbing to over 1,000.

In response to these international developments, particularly the rise of Omicron subvariants like JN.1, the Indian Health Ministry conducted a high-level review meeting. Chaired by the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), the session involved officials from NCDC, ICMR, EMR, Disaster Management, and central hospitals to assess India’s readiness. Authorities have reiterated that the domestic situation remains firmly under control.