Covid-19 Cases in India Surge Past 5,000 Mark as States Ramp Up Vigilance

The number of COVID-19 cases in India has crossed the 5,000 mark, according to the latest data released by the Union Ministry of Health on Friday. The country registered 498 new infections in the past 24 hours, raising concerns about the gradual yet persistent uptick in infections seen over recent weeks.

While the virus has evolved and is now regarded as endemic, health officials and experts are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in states like Kerala, Gujarat, and West Bengal, where case numbers are highest.

COVID-19: Rising Numbers with Regional Hotspots

Kerala continues to report the highest number of active COVID-19 cases in India, with 1,679 active infections. The state also topped the daily tally with 192 fresh cases. Gujarat followed with 107 new infections, while West Bengal recorded 58.

Delhi reported 30 new cases, bringing its total active case count to 592. However, 124 patients were discharged, reflecting a high recovery rate. Since January, the national capital has seen seven Covid-related deaths, though no new fatalities were recorded on Thursday.

In Punjab, Karnataka, and Kerala, a total of four deaths were reported in the last 24 hours. All the deceased were over 60 years of age and had existing comorbidities. With these additions, the total Covid-related fatalities since January have reached 55.

West Bengal’s cumulative Covid-19 death toll since January now stands at one, while 91 patients recovered in the past day. In Odisha, health authorities confirmed seven new infections, raising the total cases in the current wave to 30, with an equal number of recoveries reported so far.

In Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior, two junior doctors from Gajra Raja Medical College tested positive. Both are currently in home isolation and under medical supervision.

COVID-19: Preventive Measures Reinforced Amid Mild Surges

With schools in Odisha set to reopen following the summer vacation, the state government has emphasised strict adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour, particularly in indoor settings. School authorities have been directed to maintain adequate ventilation and hygiene standards to prevent the spread of infections.

To assess the current situation and boost preparedness, a series of technical review meetings was held on June 2 and 3. Chaired by Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services (DGHS), the meetings included key representatives from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Central Government Hospitals, along with state and UT health officials.

These sessions focused on reviewing medical infrastructure, vaccination drives, genomic surveillance, and outbreak response strategies. They also emphasised the need for constant vigilance and public communication to dispel misinformation and maintain public trust.

Expert Outlook: A Shift Toward Endemic Reality

Despite the surge in numbers, health experts remain cautiously optimistic. According to global health specialist Dr. Chandrakant Lahariya, the nature of COVID-19 has changed significantly. “Covid-19 has become just another respiratory illness. It is now less dangerous than the flu,” he said, noting that repeated waves will likely be part of an endemic pattern, rather than a pandemic threat.

Dr. Lahariya emphasised that hospitalisations and severe cases have become rare, and existing healthcare systems are well-prepared to handle intermittent surges.

Also Read : Dhanya Samuel: The Spice Adventuress Bringing Indian Flavors to Australian Tables