India is seeing a new wave of COVID-19 infections. Active cases on June 7, 2025, stood at 5,755, with 391 fresh cases and 4 deaths in the past 24 hours. Kerala, Delhi, and Gujarat are leading the surge. Health officials have put out advisories, asking citizens to stay alert and follow safety guidelines. With a new strain in the community and new advisories rolled out across various states, people are left asking if we are experiencing another wave or a mere seasonal surge.
Current Situation of COVID-19 Across States![]()
The current surge is mainly due to the appearance of new strains, specifically NB.1.8.1, which is responsible for a worldwide surge in cases. Kerala continues to report the highest number of cases, with 1,806 active cases and 127 new recoveries. Delhi has also seen a significant rise, with 665 active cases and 73 new recoveries. Gujarat reported 717 active cases, with 102 new recoveries. Other states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and West Bengal are also experiencing a steady increase in cases.
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State Advisories and Measures
In response to the rising numbers, several states have ramped up their preparedness:
- Kerala has escalated surveillance and testing, particularly in the districts with higher cases. The Health Department has made COVID testing compulsory for patients with influenza-like illness and respiratory conditions. Hospitals must screen symptomatic patients and mandate the use of masks by healthcare workers, patients, and bystanders.
- Delhi officials have suggested that citizens put on masks in public areas and maintain indoor ventilation. Hospitals have been asked to be better prepared, with the availability of oxygen, isolation beds, and necessary medicines.
- Odisha has also appealed to people with COVID-19 symptoms to stay away from the Puri Rath Yatra in person and view the festival on television at home. Health authorities stressed the adherence to respiratory etiquette and common health practices.
- Uttarakhand has been recording an increase in COVID-19 cases, and the number of patients has risen to 30. The state government keeps a close eye on the issue, particularly with regard to the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, and has taken measures accordingly to avoid further transmission.
The central government has also made it necessary to conduct hospital preparedness exercises and has recommended that all states ensure the availability of adequate oxygen, ventilators, isolation facilities, and critical drugs
Understanding the New Variant: NB.1.8.1![]()
The NB.1.8.1 strain, a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant, has been found to be a leading cause of the recent upsurge. Although the majority of infections are still mild, doctors caution that increasing numbers have the potential to affect the elderly and immunocompromised more seriously.
The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to track the antigenic and genetic evolution of SARS-CoV-2 variants. In its last statement, the WHO highlighted the significance of modifying COVID-19 vaccine compositions to correspond to circulating variants, like the JN.1 lineage.
In addition, the WHO recommends that manufacturers and regulatory agencies on the bearings for future revisions of COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition to keep vaccines effective against new variants.
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Importance of Vaccination and Boosters
Vaccination is still an essential measure against COVID-19. The WHO reiterates that booster shots reinforce and prolong protection, keeping the immune system primed to defend against infections.
Health authorities advise booster shots based on scientific evidence that the extra doses can aid in reinforcing and prolonging protection, especially for illnesses with a higher chance of outbreaks.
Precautionary Measures for the Public
For the virus not to spread, citizens should:
- Wear masks in crowded or indoor settings.
- Practice hand hygiene through regular washing of hands with soap or the use of sanitisers.
- Use appropriate ventilation in indoor places.
- Minimise large crowds and physical distancing.
- Stay home when experiencing symptoms and report immediately to seek medical consultation.
Conclusion
The re-emergence of COVID-19 cases reminds everyone that the pandemic is not yet over. Complacency may cause new increases even though the situation is under control. Safety precautions, vigilance, and vaccination are necessary measures to protect oneself and society.