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)

India has reported a sharp rise in active COVID-19 cases, climbing from 257 on May 19 to 1,009 on May 26, 2025. Kerala leads with 430 cases, followed by Maharashtra and Delhi. New variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, classified as Variants Under Monitoring by WHO, have been detected in Tamil Nadu and other states. The Health Ministry stated most cases are mild and under home care. Surveillance systems like IDSP and ICMR are actively monitoring the situation. While Asia sees similar trends, officials confirmed the new variants aren't more severe or transmissible than previous strains. (PC: The Hindu)

The Centre has reviewed the recent surge in COVID-19 cases across India, noting that most infections are mild and manageable at home. Health authorities emphasize that hospitalization is generally unnecessary for these cases, and the public is advised to avoid panic. AIIMS Director Dr. Randeep Guleria warns against the misuse of CT scans in mild cases, highlighting that one scan equals 300–400 chest X-rays, increasing cancer risk, especially in younger individuals. Instead, he recommends chest X-rays when necessary and cautions against unnecessary biomarker tests and early steroid use, which can lead to complications. The government urges continued vigilance and adherence to medical guidelines to effectively manage the situation. (PC: iStock)

India is witnessing a resurgence of Covid-19 cases, mainly driven by the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron. Kerala leads with 273 cases, followed by Mumbai (95), Delhi (23), and Karnataka (35), including a nine-month-old infant. Most infections are mild, with no reported fatalities. Authorities have urged hospitals to ensure bed, oxygen, and medicine availability. Delhi hospitals are uploading daily ILI and SARI data, while masks are now mandatory in Kerala hospitals. Maharashtra’s Thane and cities like Noida and Ghaziabad have also reported new cases. Though the WHO hasn't flagged JN.1 as a variant of concern, states remain vigilant amid rising numbers. (PC: India Today)

Delhi reported 23 new Covid-19 cases on Friday, prompting the government to issue an advisory urging hospitals to ensure readiness with beds, oxygen, medicines, and vaccines. Health Minister Pankaj Singh said authorities are verifying if the patients are Delhi residents or have travel history. All positive samples will be sent to Lok Nayak Hospital for genome sequencing. The advisory follows a recent rise in Covid cases in countries like China and Singapore. Nationwide, 257 cases were reported this week, mostly mild. The Delhi government emphasized the need for functional equipment and daily data reporting on the state health portal. (PC: ANI)

Covid-19 cases are rising in parts of Asia, including Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand. But India has reported only 257 active cases as of May 19, 2025. Most are mild, with no hospitalisation needed, officials said. Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu reported the highest numbers. A review meeting held by health experts concluded that India’s Covid situation is under control. Mumbai saw two deaths, but both had serious existing illnesses. Hong Kong and Singapore also saw a rise but called it expected. South Korea extended its Covid vaccination drive, urging older people to get the JN.1 booster shot. (PC: Representative)

COVID-19 cases are surging in Hong Kong and Singapore, driven by waning immunity and the rapid spread of new Omicron JN.1 variants. Singapore's Health Ministry reported a 28% increase in estimated cases, reaching 14,200 in the first week of May, with hospitalizations rising by around 30%. Key symptoms include cough, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, brain fog, and conjunctivitis. In Hong Kong, the virus's presence in sewage water indicates widespread community transmission, prompting health alerts. Despite the uptick, vaccinations remain effective in preventing severe illness, and no new social restrictions are planned. Authorities urge continued vigilance, mask-wearing in crowded places, and staying home when ill to mitigate the spread. (PC: News18)

The UK government abandoned guidance promoting discounts on minimally processed, nutritious foods after lobbying from the Food and Drink Federation (FDF), representing major ultra-processed food producers like Nestlé and Coca-Cola. Initially, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) advised retailers to offer deals on healthier options, including fresh produce and whole grains. However, following persistent lobbying, the DHSC revised the guidance in June 2023 to vaguely promote “healthier options,” a term critics argue allows inclusion of many ultra-processed foods. Emails obtained under freedom of information laws reveal the FDF’s efforts to influence DHSC policy. This shift affects millions, as ultra-processed foods comprise half of the typical British diet and up to 80% for vulnerable populations. (PC: The Guardian)

Tim Friede, a former truck mechanic from the US, has helped scientists make a major breakthrough in antivenom research by repeatedly injecting himself with venom from deadly snakes like mambas, cobras, taipans, and kraits over nearly two decades. His blood developed powerful antibodies that have shown the ability to neutralize lethal doses from multiple snake species in animal trials. This advancement could lead to the first universal snakebite treatment, potentially saving thousands of lives annually. Unlike current antivenoms, which must match specific venom types, Friede’s contribution offers broad protection and new hope for global snakebite victims. (PC: Getty Images)