As of June 8, India has 5,755 active COVID-19 cases, with 391 new infections and 4 deaths in the last 24 hours, said the Health Ministry. Kerala reported the highest rise with 127 new cases, followed by Gujarat (102) and Delhi (73). So far in 2025, 5,484 patients have recovered and 59 people have died. States with new deaths include Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Only Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Tripura, and Chandigarh reported no new cases. Hospitals across India are now running mock drills to check oxygen, ventilator, and medicine availability in case of a bigger COVID-19 surge. (PTI)

On June 5, 2025, the Indian government conducted a comprehensive COVID-19 mock drill across hospitals nationwide to evaluate readiness amid a rise in active cases exceeding 4,000. The exercise focused on testing availability of isolation wards, ICU beds, oxygen support, and ventilators. Officials aimed to identify gaps in healthcare infrastructure and improve response mechanisms to potential future outbreaks. Health authorities reiterated the need for continued vigilance and strict adherence to COVID-appropriate protocols to prevent further spread of the virus. (PC: PTI)

A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, has been identified in the UK, with confirmed cases in Northern Ireland and Wales. This Omicron subvariant, first detected in January 2025, now accounts for over 10% of global infections. It has rapidly spread to multiple countries, including the US, Australia, Thailand, and is currently the dominant strain in China and Hong Kong. While NB.1.8.1 does not appear to cause more severe illness, it is believed to infect cells more efficiently and may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, and nausea. Health authorities continue to monitor its progression and advise the public to remain vigilant. (PC: BBC)  

India’s active Covid-19 caseload has crossed 4,000, rising sharply within three days of breaching the 3,000 mark, according to the Health Ministry. On Tuesday, the country recorded 65 fresh cases and five deaths. Kerala reported the highest number of infections (1,416), followed by Maharashtra (494) and Gujarat (397). Delhi, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh also saw triple-digit spikes. The reported deaths include elderly patients with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and acute respiratory conditions. Despite 512 recoveries in 24 hours, the upward trend is being closely monitored amid concerns of a possible resurgence. (PC: HT) 

The Delhi High Court has raised alarm over a resurgence of Covid-19 cases in the capital, urging the Centre to expedite guidelines for the collection and transport of samples. With 483 active cases in Delhi, Justice Anish Dayal emphasized the urgency, citing the Centre’s delay despite forming expert committees in 2023. The court was hearing a contempt plea filed by Dr. Rohit Jain, who alleged non-compliance with earlier directives. While acknowledging progress, the court directed the Centre to submit a status report within six weeks. Rising cases in Asia have further prompted Indian authorities to enhance hospital preparedness and genome surveillance. (PC: HT)

India has reported a rise in Covid-19 cases, with 3,758 active cases as of June 1. In the past 24 hours, 363 new infections were recorded. Kerala has the highest number with 1,400 cases, followed by Maharashtra (485) and Delhi (436). Three Covid-related deaths were reported—one each in Kerala, Karnataka, and Delhi. The deceased include a 24-year-old woman in Kerala, a 63-year-old man in Karnataka, and a 60-year-old woman in Delhi. Health officials have advised people to wear masks in crowded places and follow hygiene rules as a precaution. This marks the first major surge in cases in recent months. (PC: Sanchit Khanna/Hindustan Times)

As of May 31, 2025, India has recorded a sharp rise in active COVID-19 cases, now totaling 3,395—up significantly from just 257 on May 22. Kerala leads with 1,336 active cases, followed by Maharashtra with 467 and Delhi with 375. In the last 24 hours alone, 685 new infections and four deaths were reported—one each in Kerala, Delhi, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. Health authorities attribute the surge to emerging sub-variants in the western and southern states but urge the public to remain calm, as most cases remain mild. (PC: HT Photo)

As of May 31, 2025, India has reported over 3,300 active COVID-19 cases, with Kerala leading at 1,336 cases. Other significantly affected states include Maharashtra (467 cases), Delhi (375), Gujarat (265), Karnataka (234), West Bengal (205), Tamil Nadu (185), and Uttar Pradesh (117). The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has confirmed a recent death in Delhi—a 60-year-old woman with comorbidities and an incidental COVID-19 finding. In response to the surge, state governments are issuing advisories and implementing preventive measures, particularly focusing on vulnerable populations. Health authorities urge the public to adhere to safety protocols to curb the spread of the virus. (PC: Mint)

India has reported a sudden spike in Covid-19 cases, with active infections rising to 2,710, marking a five-fold increase since May 25. Kerala leads with 1,147 cases, followed by Maharashtra (424), Delhi (294), and Gujarat (223). Seven deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours, including two in Maharashtra. The surge is linked to Omicron sub-variants LF.7 and NB.1.8.1, though JN.1 remains dominant. Most infections are mild. Authorities urge elderly citizens and those with comorbidities to wear masks. Hospitals have been advised to stay alert with adequate oxygen, beds, and vaccines amid rising concerns but no signs of major severity. (PC: AFP)

India has detected four new Omicron subvariants—LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1—but health authorities, including the ICMR and Delhi government, urge the public not to panic. The ICMR said these variants cause only mild symptoms and are currently under surveillance. WHO has listed two—LF.7 and NB.1.8.1—as “Variants Under Monitoring,” not variants of concern. With 1,009 active cases nationwide and Kerala reporting the highest count, Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh assured full preparedness in hospitals. Citizens with low immunity are advised to stay cautious, while officials stress the outbreak is under control and vaccine readiness is in place for any future threats. (PC: HT)