Kerala reported 430 active cases and two deaths, Maharashtra recorded 209 active cases and four deaths, while Delhi recorded 105 active cases between May 19 and 26.
India is experiencing a notable uptick in COVID-19 infections, with active cases surpassing 1,000 for the first time in recent months. Government data reveals 1,009 active cases as of May 26, 2025, representing a dramatic surge from previous weeks. The country recorded over 700 new cases in the past week alone, accompanied by seven deaths—a significant jump from just one fatality reported until May 19.
Kerala emerges as the most affected state with 430 active cases during May 19-26, compared to 95 cases in the preceding period, along with two deaths. Maharashtra follows with 209 cases and four fatalities, rising sharply from 56 cases as of May 19. Delhi witnessed an extraordinary spike from merely five cases on May 19 to 105 cases by May 26. Other states showing increased activity include Karnataka (47 cases, one death), Gujarat (83 cases), Uttar Pradesh (15 cases), West Bengal (12 cases), and Tamil Nadu (69 cases).
The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium has identified several Omicron subvariants circulating nationwide, including LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and the emerging NB.1.8.1. Tamil Nadu detected one NB.1.8.1 case in April, while Gujarat reported four LF.7 cases in May. These variants are classified as “Variants Under Monitoring” by the World Health Organization.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research, reassured the public about the current situation’s manageable nature. “The severity is generally low. There’s nothing to worry about,” he stated, emphasizing that symptoms remain mild and comparable to common viral infections. The spread pattern has moved progressively from southern to western and now northern regions.
Health officials stress that no immediate vaccination requirements exist, though India maintains vaccine production capabilities. Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh echoed these sentiments, confirming hospital preparedness while urging against panic. The resurgence aligns with similar increases across Southeast Asian nations, including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand.