India is witnessing a gradual uptick in COVID-19 cases, prompting the Union Health Ministry to intensify surveillance and reinforce public health measures. As of 24 May 2025, the country has reported 257 active cases, with Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi accounting for the majority.

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava conducted a comprehensive review on Saturday, emphasising that most cases are mild and managed under home care. The Ministry, through its various agencies, is proactively monitoring the situation to ensure timely interventions.

Kerala leads with 273 active cases, notably in districts like Kottayam (82 cases) and Thiruvananthapuram (73 cases). Health Minister Veena George has urged heightened vigilance, mandating mask usage in hospitals and advising symptomatic individuals and vulnerable groups to wear face coverings.

In Maharashtra, over 56 active cases have been reported, with Mumbai and Pune witnessing new infections. Although no new deaths have been reported, the state remains alert, reinforcing preventive measures.

Tamil Nadu has recorded 66 active cases, while Karnataka reported 35, including three infants testing positive in Bengaluru. Health authorities in these states are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring adequate healthcare preparedness.

Delhi has reported 23 active cases, marking its first significant spike in three years. The government has directed hospitals to ensure the availability of beds, oxygen supplies, and essential medications.

The resurgence is attributed to the JN.1 subvariant of Omicron, which, while more transmissible, has not been classified as a variant of concern by the World Health Organization. Symptoms are generally mild, including fever, sore throat, and fatigue, with recovery typically within four days.

The Union Health Ministry continues to rely on the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for real-time data and guidance. Citizens are advised to adhere to COVID-appropriate behaviour, including mask-wearing in crowded places, hand hygiene, and avoiding unnecessary hospital visits.