After several months of minimal activity, COVID-19 has begun to make a slow but noticeable comeback in India, particularly in urban centers. A rise in fresh cases has been reported from states including Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. In response, authorities in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka have instructed hospitals to remain vigilant and ensure preparedness.

Kerala has recorded the highest number of infections in May, reporting 273 cases. The districts most affected include Kottayam (82), Thiruvananthapuram (73), Ernakulam (49), Pathanamthitta (30), and Thrissur (26). Health Minister Veena George has directed all districts to increase monitoring and surveillance. Mask mandates have been reintroduced in hospitals, and individuals showing signs of respiratory illness are being urged to wear face coverings.

Delhi Reports First Cases in Years

For the first time in three years, Delhi has reported 23 new COVID-19 cases, prompting the state administration to advise hospitals to secure sufficient supplies of oxygen, beds, testing kits, and vaccines. Health Minister Pankaj Singh reassured residents, stating that the newly detected variant resembles common flu and does not appear to cause severe illness. Hospitals have also been instructed to submit daily reports on cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) via the integrated health data system.

Rising Infections in Maharashtra and Karnataka

Maharashtra has seen a moderate increase, with Mumbai accounting for 95 of the state’s cases this month. Despite this, only 16 patients have required hospital admission. In the nearby city of Thane, 10 new infections have been reported over the past three days. The municipal corporation has conducted a readiness review and confirmed that medical supplies, including medications, remain well-stocked at local health centers.

Karnataka has also recorded a slight uptick in cases, reporting 35 infections. Among the newly infected is a nine-month-old infant from Hoskote. The state health department has recommended COVID testing for all individuals displaying symptoms of SARI.

Noida, Ghaziabad Also Report Cases

Delhi-NCR cities have not been spared. A 55-year-old woman in Noida tested positive and was placed under quarantine. Samples from her family members have been collected for testing, and local authorities have reminded the public to follow standard safety measures such as mask-wearing and hand hygiene. Ghaziabad has logged four cases so far during this wave.

Although Andhra Pradesh has not seen a significant rise in cases, the government has ordered all healthcare facilities to stock up on essential supplies, including vaccines, PPE kits, and triple-layer masks. Additionally, travelers returning from countries where COVID cases are on the rise, particularly in Asia, have been advised to get tested as a precaution.

Experts Urge Caution, Not Panic

Medical experts and health officials continue to emphasise that most new infections have been mild, with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, runny nose, and headache. Recovery is typically within four days, and no deaths have been attributed to the current wave thus far. Nevertheless, authorities are urging citizens to stay cautious, especially those with underlying health conditions or exhibiting symptoms of respiratory distress.