New Delhi, 01 June 2025: India is once again witnessing a fresh spike in COVID-19 cases in 2025. According to the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, active COVID-19 cases have surged past the 3,300 mark, with 26 deaths reported in recent days. Kerala has emerged as the worst-hit state, contributing the highest number of new infections and fatalities.
This sudden rise in cases has raised alarm among health officials, prompting advisories on precautionary measures, testing protocols, and booster vaccinations. Here’s a detailed overview of the current COVID-19 situation in India.
COVID-19 2025: Rising Active Cases Raise Concerns
India’s active COVID-19 case count reached 3,325 on Friday, marking a significant increase over the last two weeks. Public health experts are closely monitoring the situation, especially with new infections being reported across southern states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
The daily positivity rate has also seen an uptick in several districts, and although hospitalization rates remain low, experts warn of possible complications in the elderly and high-risk groups.
Dr. Anjali Verma, a virologist at AIIMS, states: “While the overall severity remains moderate, the rise in symptomatic cases and deaths among vulnerable populations is worrying. Surveillance must improve.”
Death Toll Rises to 26: Kerala Reports Majority of Fatalities
Among the 26 recent deaths, Kerala alone accounts for 15, making it the state most severely impacted by the current surge. The state’s health department has ramped up RT-PCR testing, contact tracing, and genome sequencing to assess the spread and possible emergence of new variants.
Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have also reported fatalities, particularly among individuals aged 60 and above with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and chronic lung disease.
New COVID-19 Variant NB.1.8.1 Under Watch
The sudden surge in cases may be linked to the emergence of a new subvariant, NB.1.8.1, a strain under the Omicron lineage. Detected in several international travellers and confirmed through genome sequencing in Kerala and Maharashtra, NB.1.8.1 is currently under surveillance by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
What’s concerning is that this variant shows a higher transmission rate and a greater ability to reinfect even vaccinated individuals. While data is still being collected, initial observations suggest symptoms are largely similar to previous Omicron strains but could vary in intensity.
Common Symptoms of NB.1.8.1:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Sore throat and irritation
- Low-grade fever or chills
- Nasal congestion and sneezing
- Body ache and mild headache
- Mild cough, dry or productive
Kerala’s Response: Testing, Isolation, and Precautions
Kerala has reinstated mandatory masking in hospitals, particularly in emergency wards, ICUs, and for healthcare workers. The state government has also advised residents to avoid public gatherings and to get their booster doses as soon as possible.
District-level rapid response teams are being activated in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode, which are reporting a sharp rise in cases. Authorities have increased RT-PCR testing at airports and public transport hubs.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George said: “We are witnessing a sharp increase in symptomatic COVID-19 cases. People with comorbidities and the elderly should avoid crowded spaces and get vaccinated.”
Booster Dose Coverage Still Low
Despite repeated advisories, booster dose coverage in India remains below 10% in the adult population. Experts warn that waning immunity among those who received their last shot in 2021 or early 2022 may be contributing to reinfections.
The Health Ministry has urged all states to resume booster awareness campaigns, especially targeting the elderly, healthcare workers, and those with chronic health conditions.
Government Issues New Guidelines Amid Surge
In light of the recent surge, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued fresh COVID-19 guidelines for all states and union territories:
- Increase in surveillance and testing, especially in high-density areas
- Mandatory genome sequencing for positive samples in outbreak zones
- Availability of isolation beds and oxygen supply in hospitals
- Promotion of COVID-appropriate behaviour including mask-wearing in enclosed spaces
- Emphasis on booster vaccination, especially in high-risk groups
States have also been advised to conduct mock drills to ensure hospital readiness, and to keep COVID-19 war rooms on standby in case of further spikes.
What Should the Public Do?
The general public is advised to remain cautious and adhere to basic COVID-19 precautions, especially in regions experiencing a surge. Here are some key measures to follow:
- Wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas
- Get your booster dose if eligible
- Avoid large gatherings and non-essential travel
- Stay home if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or sore throat
- Practice good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
The COVID-19 resurgence in India in 2025, marked by over 3,300 active cases and 26 deaths, is a reminder that the virus is still evolving. With Kerala at the centre of this new wave and the NB.1.8.1 variant under close scrutiny, it’s essential for both the government and the public to act swiftly. Booster doses, improved testing, and COVID-appropriate behaviour remain the most effective ways to contain this fresh surge and prevent further loss of life.
