COVID-19 Cases Rise Again in India: 164 New Infections Reported Nationwide
May 23, 2025 — India is seeing a fresh rise in COVID-19 cases, with 164 new infections reported across the country between May 12 and May 19, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The country’s total number of active COVID-19 cases has now increased to 257.
Though the numbers are low compared to the major waves in previous years, health officials are treating this rise seriously. They have urged people to stay cautious and follow safety guidelines, especially as some neighboring countries in Asia are also reporting a sharp increase in cases.
Where Are the Cases Coming From?
The majority of the new COVID-19 cases are being reported from just a few states:
Kerala has the highest number with 69 new cases.
Maharashtra follows with 44 cases.
Tamil Nadu has reported 34 new cases.
Other states such as Karnataka, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Sikkim have reported fewer cases but are also being monitored closely.
What’s Causing the Spike?
Health experts say that the increase in cases is likely due to a new subvariant of the Omicron strain, known as JN.1. This variant is a sub-lineage of Omicron BA.2.86 and is believed to spread faster and possibly bypass some of the immunity people have from vaccines or past infections.
The JN.1 variant contains a mutation called L455S in its spike protein, which helps the virus attach to and infect human cells more efficiently. This makes it more contagious than previous subvariants.
Similar Trend in Other Countries
India is not alone in facing a rise in cases. Countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, and China are also seeing increases, mainly because of the JN.1 variant. This has raised concerns that COVID-19 could again become a problem if not properly managed.
In response, India’s top health bodies — including the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) — have held high-level meetings to review the situation. They are discussing how to strengthen surveillance and testing and prepare hospitals for any possible rise in serious cases.
Most Cases Are Mild
So far, most of the new COVID-19 cases are reported to be mild. There has not been any significant increase in hospital admissions. However, health officials are not taking any chances.
They are advising the public to:
Wash hands regularly with soap or sanitizer.
Wear masks in crowded places or indoor areas with poor ventilation.
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and booster doses.
Watch out for common symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, and breathing problems.
Dr. Suresh Kumar from RML Hospital in Delhi said, “Most of the population is vaccinated, which is helping keep symptoms mild. But if someone feels unwell, especially with respiratory symptoms, they should self-isolate and wear a mask to protect others.”
Bhubaneswar Steps Up Vigilance
In Bhubaneswar, local health officials are on high alert. Hospitals are reviewing their preparedness, and additional checks are being carried out at clinics and health centers. Authorities are also keeping a close eye on the city’s weather conditions — with rising heat and humidity potentially making people more prone to respiratory illnesses.
People in Bhubaneswar are being urged to follow basic precautions and not let their guard down, especially in public spaces and during indoor gatherings.
Final Word
While the current rise in COVID-19 cases is not causing panic, experts say it’s a clear signal that the virus is still circulating and evolving. With new variants like JN.1 appearing, it’s important for everyone to remain cautious.
Health officials stress that there is no need to worry, but people should not ignore safety guidelines either. Taking small steps like wearing masks, washing hands, and staying updated on vaccinations can go a long way in preventing a bigger outbreak.
India has managed to bring down cases before — and with the right measures, it can do so again.
The Eastern Times
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