New Delhi, 23 May 2025: India is witnessing a fresh surge in COVID 19 cases, sparking concerns among health authorities and the public. The uptick, seen across multiple states including Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, believed to be driven by new, fast-spreading sub-variants of the virus. While the severity of infections remains low for now, the rapid rise in numbers has prompted health departments to stay on alert, especially with the potential of community transmission increasing.
In this article, we explore what is currently known about the new COVID-19 sub-variants. The states most affected, symptoms to watch out for, and what precautions you should be taking now.
What Is Causing the New Rise in COVID-19 Cases?
The recent spike in COVID-19 cases in India appears to linked to emerging sub-variants of the Omicron lineage. These new strains are showing increased transmissibility, meaning they spread more easily from person to person. Experts say while these variants are not necessarily more severe, their ability to infect a larger number of people quickly is what’s causing concern.
According to the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), the variants detected in recent cases include Omicron sub-lineages like KP.2 and JN.1.1, which already being monitor globally for their fast-spreading nature. These variants may have minor changes in their spike protein, allowing them to evade immune response to some extent — especially in people whose immunity from vaccination or previous infection may have waned over time.
States Reporting a Rise in COVID-19 Cases
Several Indian states are now reporting a noticeable increase in COVID-19 cases:
Kerala has reported the highest recent numbers, with 182 new infections in just a few days. The state health department has asked hospitals to stay prepared for a possible rise in hospitalisations.
Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai, logged around 100 fresh cases in a single day, with a few patients requiring hospitalisation due to mild respiratory symptoms.
Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have also see a steady trickle of new cases, with Chennai and Bengaluru reporting clusters of infections that being monitored closely.
Puducherry and Gujarat have reported smaller numbers, but state health officials have reactivated testing and surveillance protocols as a precaution.
Although hospitalisations remain low and most cases are mild or asymptomatic, the rapid community spread has reignited the conversation around COVID-19 preparedness.
Symptoms of the New COVID-19 Sub-Variants
The symptoms associated with these new sub-variants remain mostly consistent with earlier Omicron infections. Common signs include:
- Mild fever
- Sore throat
- Cough (dry or with phlegm)
- Runny nose
- Fatigue and body aches
- Headache
Some people have also reported digestive issues like nausea or mild diarrhea. In rare cases, loss of taste or smell has noted. Most patients recover within 3–5 days with home care, though the elderly and those with comorbidities may experience prolonged symptoms.
Health officials continue to stress that if you experience any of these symptoms — especially after travel or contact with a ken COVID-19 case — you should tested and self-isolate immediately.
Should You Be Worried?
At this point, health experts believe the situation is under control, but caution is key. The virus is now endemic, meaning it expected to circulate at low levels within the population, occasionally flaring up when conditions allow — such as during weather changes, large gatherings, or waning immunity.
The good news is that existing vaccines still offer strong protection against severe disease and hospitalisation. However, if it has been more than a year since your last booster. It may be worth consulting your doctor about an update, especially if you’re in a high-risk group.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
While lockdowns and strict restrictions may be a thing of the past, personal responsibility remains crucial. Here’s what you can do:
- Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces or poorly ventilated areas.
- Wash your hands frequently or use sanitiser, especially after public exposure.
- Avoid unnecessary travel if you’re unwell or have exposed to someone who tested positive.
- Stay updated on vaccinations, especially if you’re a senior or have chronic health issues.
- Monitor local health updates from your state health department for changes in guidelines.
India’s current rise in COVID-19 cases is a reminder that while the pandemic phase may be over, the virus hasn’t disappeared. The new fast-spreading sub-variants are driving a subtle but significant wave of infections that demand our attention.
By staying informed, cautious, and proactive, we can prevent further spread and protect the vulnerable — ensuring that COVID-19 becomes just another manageable respiratory virus in our daily lives.
