New Delhi, 01 June 2025: India is witnessing yet another surge in COVID-19 cases in 2025, raising alarm among health authorities, medical professionals, and the general public. With increasing infections being reported in multiple states, concerns are growing over the emergence of new variants, declining booster uptake, and complacency in following COVID-appropriate behaviour. But what exactly is driving this new wave?
COVID-19 2025: What’s Triggering the New Surge?
According to data from health departments and genomic surveillance institutes, a combination of factors is responsible for the latest resurgence. One of the primary causes is the emergence of new variants such as NB.1.8.1, a subvariant of Omicron, which has demonstrated a higher transmission rate and potential for reinfection, even among vaccinated individuals.
Health experts say that waning immunity, coupled with low booster dose coverage, is also contributing to the increased vulnerability among the population. In many states, especially in urban centres, testing has significantly reduced, resulting in underreported cases and delayed response to local outbreaks.
New COVID-19 Variants: Are They More Dangerous?
One of the most alarming developments in 2025 is the spread of NB.1.8.1, currently being monitored by the World Health Organization (WHO). This subvariant has already gained dominance in several parts of Australia and has now been detected in India, particularly in Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi NCR.
Preliminary studies indicate that this strain has a high reinfection rate and is capable of immune escape, meaning it can evade the antibodies produced by previous infections or vaccinations. While it does not appear to cause more severe illness in most healthy individuals, the elderly, immunocompromised, and those with underlying conditions remain at high risk.
Symptoms include:
- Sore throat or throat irritation
- Persistent fatigue
- Mild cough (dry or wet)
- Nasal congestion and sneezing
- Muscle and body aches
- Fever or chills
- Gastrointestinal discomfort in some cases
Booster Dose Uptake Is Worryingly Low
Despite the availability of vaccines, booster dose uptake has been dismal. As per government data, less than 10% of the eligible population has taken a booster in the last six months. Many individuals, especially those in rural or semi-urban regions, have not received any COVID-19 vaccination updates since their primary doses in 2021–2022.
Experts stress that booster shots are crucial to reactivating immune memory and providing protection against new variants, particularly subvariants like NB.1.8.1 that are showing signs of immune evasion.
Dr. Richa Malhotra, an epidemiologist based in Delhi, says:
“COVID fatigue is real. People have let their guards down, but the virus hasn’t. We must boost immunity periodically, especially with evolving variants.”
Complacency in COVID Behaviour
Another major reason for the 2025 COVID-19 surge in India is a significant drop in precautionary behaviour. Mask-wearing in public spaces has become rare. Social distancing norms are largely ignored, and people with mild symptoms continue to go to work, school, or public places, aiding the spread of the virus.
With weddings, festivals, and large gatherings resuming in full swing, the risk of super-spreader events has risen. Experts recommend reinstating mask mandates in crowded or closed spaces, especially in areas witnessing a spike in cases.
Testing and Genomic Surveillance: The Need of the Hour
Health experts have flagged concerns over the sharp decline in RT-PCR testing and genomic sequencing. Without adequate data, it’s difficult to track the spread of new variants or respond with localized containment measures.
Increased wastewater surveillance, random testing in high-risk areas, and genomic sequencing of positive samples are necessary to stay ahead of the virus and prevent another large-scale outbreak.
What Are the Government and Health Bodies Doing?
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued fresh guidelines advising states to:
- Enhance surveillance and contact tracing
- Increase testing in urban clusters
- Encourage booster dose campaigns
- Promote public awareness about preventive measures
Several states have already started reactivating their COVID-19 war rooms, preparing isolation wards in hospitals, and reintroducing mask advisories for vulnerable groups.
How Can You Stay Safe?
As the country experiences a new wave, it’s important to take personal precautions seriously. Here are some ways to protect yourself and others:
- Get your booster dose if you’re eligible
- Wear a mask in crowded or enclosed spaces
- Stay home if you’re feeling unwell, even if symptoms are mild
- Wash your hands regularly or use a sanitizer
- Avoid unnecessary travel or large gatherings
- Maintain physical distance, especially around vulnerable individuals
The 2025 COVID-19 resurgence in India serves as a reminder that the pandemic is not over. While vaccination has helped reduce hospitalisations and deaths, new variants continue to pose a challenge, particularly when public vigilance drops. It’s time to recommit to safety protocols, stay informed about emerging variants, and ensure that we’re all doing our part to protect ourselves and those around us.
