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Key Points

In India, experts assure the public that the current Covid-19 wave, with 3,961 active cases, is unlikely to overburden hospitals. Predominant strains, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, show similar symptoms to earlier variants, mitigating severe health risks due to existing natural immunity. Dr. Harshal R. Salve emphasizes the importance of strengthening surveillance systems to manage potential outbreaks effectively. Health precautions, including wearing masks and maintaining hygiene, remain critical, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Key Points: Covid-19 India's New Wave Won't Overburden Hospitals Say Experts

  • 3,961 active cases countrywide
  • Two new variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 emerge
  • No expected increase in hospital burden
  • Expert advises on preventive hygiene measures
2 min read

Covid-19: Current infection wave unlikely to cause higher burden on hospitals, say doctors

Over 3,961 active cases yet experts assure no hospital burden from Covid-19 wave.

"Symptoms are similar to earlier Covid infections. - Dr Harshal R. Salve"

New Delhi, June 2

Amid nearly 4,000 active cases of Covid-19 disease in the country, health experts on Monday assured that there is no need to panic as the current infection wave is unlikely to cause a higher burden on hospitals.

According to the latest update, shared by the Ministry of Health, there are 3,961 active Covid cases. The number of deaths across multiple states, since January 1, 2025, surged to 32. Meanwhile, 2,188 patients were discharged or migrated in the last 24 hours, indicating an improvement in recovery.

"It is highly unlikely that the current infection can cause a higher burden on the hospitals. Hence, there is no need to panic. However, the sentinel surveillance system needs to be strengthened in order to catch the outbreak in the earlier phase," Dr Harshal R. Salve, Additional Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, told IANS.

Kerala (1,435), Maharashtra (506), Delhi (483), Gujarat (338), and West Bengal (331) have reported the highest number of cases so far.

This fresh wave has been caused by two new coronavirus variants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, mutations of the Omicron offspring JN.1 variant. Both were found in India, as per data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), set up under the Ministry of Health.

"While Covid cases are testing positive again, there is absolutely no need to panic. It is due to a JN.1 variant that is reportedly reappearing,” Dr. S.K. Chaudhary, Chief Superintendent of Motilal Nehru Joint Hospital in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, told IANS.

Salve noted that severe infections due to these variants are unlikely, as the majority of the population possesses natural immunity.

"Symptoms are similar to earlier Covid infections. As the majority population has already been infected earlier, they possess natural immunity, which protects them from severe manifestation of the disease," he noted.

However, "this sub-variety has high transmissibility. Patients with comorbidity and the elderly need to wear N95 masks for protection from transmission. In general, cough hygiene and hand washing need to be practised", the expert added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Good to hear that hospitals won't be overwhelmed this time. But why are Kerala and Maharashtra always hotspots? 🤔 Need better monitoring at airports and borders since these are coastal states with more international travel.
P
Priya M.
My parents are senior citizens with diabetes. Even if doctors say not to panic, I'll make sure they wear N95 masks when going out. Better safe than sorry! 🙏
A
Amit S.
The government should release district-wise data, not just state-wise. In Delhi itself, some areas might be more affected than others. Transparency is key to maintain public trust.
S
Sunita R.
After what we went through in 2021, it's hard not to worry. But doctors' reassurance helps. Just hope people don't become complacent - still seeing many not covering mouths while coughing in public places 😷
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Vikram J.
Natural immunity might protect most, but what about children born after 2021? They've never been exposed. Schools should consider temporary mask mandates if cases rise further.
N
Neha T.
Positive news, but I wish media wouldn't sensationalize every small spike. Constant fear-mongering affects mental health and small businesses. Balance is important!

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