Wed May 21 17:21:14 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

This news article from The Hindu, published on May 21, 2025, reports a rise in COVID-19 cases in Kerala, India. Health Minister Veena George notes that 182 cases have been reported in May, with Kottayam district reporting the highest number. She attributes the increase to the spread of Omicron JN.1 variants LF.7 and NB 1.8 in Southeast Asia. While the severity is not high, transmission is easier. The minister advises those with symptoms to wear masks and urges vulnerable populations to wear them in public, especially in hospitals. Testing and safety equipment in hospitals have been ordered. She also cautioned against other diseases such as dengue and rat fever due to the upcoming rainy season.

**Rewritten as a News Article:**

**COVID-19 Cases Rise in Kerala: Health Minister Urges Vigilance**

**Thiruvananthapuram, May 21, 2025** – A surge in COVID-19 cases has prompted a warning from Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George, who announced 182 confirmed infections in the state during the month of May. The highest concentration of cases is reported in Kottayam district (57), followed by Ernakulam (34) and Thiruvananthapuram (30).

Minister George attributed the rise to the spread of Omicron JN.1 variants LF.7 and NB 1.8, prevalent in Southeast Asian countries. While these variants are reportedly less severe, their higher transmission rate is a cause for concern.

“We must remain vigilant,” urged Minister George after a meeting of the State-level Rapid Response Team (RRT). “The potential for an increase in cases is present, particularly with the ongoing situation in Southeast Asia.”

The Health Minister emphasized the importance of preventative measures, advising those experiencing symptoms such as colds, sore throats, coughs, and shortness of breath to wear masks. Elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health conditions are strongly encouraged to wear masks in public places and while travelling, with mandatory mask-wearing in hospitals. Healthcare workers are also required to wear masks.

The government has directed hospitals to conduct COVID-19 tests for symptomatic patients and to ensure adequate supplies of RTPCR kits and other essential safety equipment.

In addition to COVID-19, Minister George cautioned residents to be aware of potential outbreaks of dengue, rat fever, and other waterborne diseases with the approach of the rainy season. The RRT meeting included the participation of the Health Secretary, the State Mission Director of the National Health Mission, and the Health Director.

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