Sat May 31 06:51:33 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

India is experiencing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, with active cases nearing 3,000, a significant jump within four days. Kerala is the worst-hit state, followed by Maharashtra and Delhi. While the cases are reported to be mild, the rise in infections is attributed to variants like JN.1, BA.2, and the emerging NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. Seven deaths have been reported, mainly among senior citizens with pre-existing conditions. Health officials advise vigilance but emphasize that there is no need to panic, and standard precautions are sufficient for now. The WHO classifies LF.7 and NB.1.8 subvariants as Variants Under Monitoring (VUMs), and while not considered Variants of Concern, they may be driving surges in other parts of Asia.

**News Article:**

**India Sees Rise in COVID-19 Cases, Kerala Faces New Surge**

**New Delhi:** India is experiencing a renewed increase in COVID-19 infections, with active cases surging to nearly 3,000 nationwide, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This marks a significant rise from 1,010 cases recorded on May 26 to 2,710 by May 30.

Kerala is currently the epicenter of the resurgence, reporting 1,147 active cases. Maharashtra (424 cases) and Delhi (294 cases) are also experiencing a notable increase in infections. Other states with a considerable number of cases include Gujarat (223), Tamil Nadu (148), Karnataka (148), and West Bengal (116).

While the majority of cases are reported to be mild, at least seven deaths have been recorded in recent weeks. Officials confirmed that most of the deceased were senior citizens with pre-existing health conditions.

The most prevalent COVID-19 variant in India remains JN.1 (53% of tested samples), followed by BA.2 (26%) and other Omicron sublineages (20%). However, recent cases have seen the emergence of the highly contagious NB.1.8.1 variant and at least four cases of the LF.7 variant. These variants are reportedly driving the rise in Covid cases in China and some other parts of Asia.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is closely monitoring the situation. ICMR Director General Dr. Rajiv Bahl urged the public to remain vigilant but reassured that there is no need for panic. He advised that standard precautions, such as hand hygiene and avoiding contact for those with compromised immune systems, are sufficient for now.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies LF.7 and NB.1.8 as Variants Under Monitoring (VUMs). Health authorities emphasize that the situation is being closely observed and recommend that citizens stay informed and follow basic safety guidelines.

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