New Delhi, May 31, 2025 – India’s COVID-19 cases have seen a sharp rise, reaching 3,395 active cases, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). This is a significant increase from the 1,010 active cases reported just five days ago on May 26. The majority of new infections are mild, and no states have reported hospital overburdening so far.
Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi See Most Infections
Kerala continues to be the worst-hit state with 1,336 active cases, followed by Maharashtra (467) and Delhi (375). Other states such as Gujarat (265), Karnataka (234), West Bengal (205), Tamil Nadu (185), and Uttar Pradesh (117) are also reporting noticeable spikes.
In the past 24 hours alone, 685 new cases have been logged nationwide. Four deaths were reported, one each from Delhi, Kerala, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh, mostly among the elderly or those with pre-existing health conditions.
Delhi’s reported fatality was a 71-year-old man with pneumonia, septic shock, and acute kidney injury. The capital also recorded the sharpest one-day rise in active cases, with 81 new cases in a single day.
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ICMR and Health Ministry: No Cause for Panic
Officials from the Union Health Ministry emphasized that most COVID-19 cases remain mild and do not require hospitalization. Over 265 patients were discharged in the last 24 hours.
Dr Rajiv Behl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), reassured citizens that:
“We’re closely monitoring the situation. While vigilance is necessary, there’s no cause for worry at this moment.”
Timeline of the Surge: From 257 to 3,395 in 10 Days
On May 22, India had just 257 active cases. By May 26, the count jumped to 1,010, and now, 3,395 – marking a 13x increase in just over a week.
The fastest-growing clusters are located in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and some parts of southern India.
Delhi Government Issues Hospital Advisory
In response to the surge, the Delhi Government issued an advisory on May 23, instructing hospitals to prepare for any increase in demand. Key instructions include maintaining stockpiles of oxygen, life-saving drugs, ventilators, BiPAP machines, and hospital beds.
Omicron Sub-Variants Behind New Surge
Genome sequencing has revealed the presence of new Omicron sub-variants including LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1. These have been primarily detected in southern and western India.
Dr Behl clarified that these sub-variants are more transmissible, but not more severe:
“These are classified as Variants Under Monitoring by the WHO. They are not classified as Variants of Concern at this time.”
Countries such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Australia have also seen similar variants in circulation, though without severe impact.
Should You Be Worried?
While the rise in India’s COVID-19 cases is notable, the current evidence shows that:
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Most infections are mild
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Hospitalization rates remain low
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No major healthcare strain is reported
Experts recommend continued vaccination, masking in crowded areas, and monitoring symptoms, especially for the elderly and those with comorbidities.