New Delhi, 03 June 2025: In a concerning development, West Bengal has reported its first COVID-19 fatality linked to the highly contagious JN.1 variant. A 59-year-old male patient from Kolkata, who had multiple comorbidities including diabetes and hypertension, succumbed to the infection after battling severe respiratory distress. This marks the first confirmed death attributed to the JN.1 variant in the state during the ongoing surge in infections.
As of today, the total number of active COVID-19 cases in West Bengal has surged to 372, with Kolkata, Howrah, and North 24 Parganas emerging as the worst-hit districts. Health officials say the recent uptick is largely driven by newer sub-variants like JN.1, LF.7, and NB.1.8.1, which are proving to be more immune-evasive and fast-spreading compared to earlier Omicron sub-lineages.
Who Was the First Victim?
According to hospital sources, the victim was admitted to a private hospital in south Kolkata last week with high fever, persistent cough, and breathlessness. A RT-PCR test confirmed the presence of the JN.1 variant, a sub-lineage currently listed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM).
The patient’s condition deteriorated rapidly, despite oxygen support and antiviral treatment. “He had pre-existing conditions that worsened the infection. His lungs were severely affected,” said Dr. Asit Ghosh, a senior pulmonologist at the hospital.
Bengal’s COVID-19 Situation: What We Know
The state health department has confirmed 372 active cases as of June 2, with Kolkata alone accounting for 151 infections. Other districts contributing to the rising case tally include:
- Howrah: 63 cases
- North 24 Parganas: 47 cases
- South 24 Parganas: 31 cases
- Hooghly: 20 cases
- Darjeeling & Siliguri regions: 14 cases combined
“Most of the new cases are mildly symptomatic, but we’re keeping a close watch on hospital admissions,” said a senior official from the West Bengal Health Services.
Symptoms of the JN.1 Variant
Health experts say the JN.1 variant is more transmissible but presents with slightly different symptoms than previous COVID strains. Watch out for:
- Mild fever lasting 2–3 days
- Dry throat and irritation
- Persistent cough
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Occasional gastrointestinal discomfort
- General fatigue and body ache
While most cases are manageable at home with rest and hydration, those with underlying health conditions or respiratory issues must remain extra cautious.
State Government’s Response
The West Bengal government has increased genome sequencing efforts and reinstated mask advisories in hospitals, elderly care homes, and crowded public spaces. Several private hospitals in Kolkata have also reopened COVID wards, anticipating a further rise in cases.
A press release from the Health Department stated: “The public is urged to remain calm but vigilant. Vaccination, masking, and testing are crucial to contain further spread.”
District health officers have been instructed to ramp up testing, contact tracing, and isolation protocols.
Vaccination and Booster Appeal
With the emergence of new variants, doctors are strongly recommending that citizens—especially senior citizens and immunocompromised individuals—get their booster doses without delay.
Dr. Sharmila Ray, a virologist at the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED), said, “We are dealing with a highly transmissible strain. Vaccines still offer significant protection against hospitalization and severe outcomes.”
The first COVID death linked to the JN.1 variant in Kolkata is a grim reminder that the pandemic is not entirely over. As Bengal’s COVID tally continues to climb, public cooperation, mask usage, timely testing, and vaccinations will play a critical role in controlling the outbreak.
