India's preparedness for Covid-19 in 2025

ONCE again Covid-19 cases are on the rise. This recurrence poses ongoing public health and economic implications.

- IPSITA DASH

Two new Covid subvariants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, both from omicron lineage, are quickly making rounds, a painful reminder that the virus never truly left us. The strains that are spreading now cause relatively mild symptoms. Indian hospitals with half a decade of experience, hindsight and infrastructure are equipped to handle Covid patients. After China, Hong Kong, Singapore and other places recording an uptick in Covid-19 cases, India is on the same page now. The latest data from the Union Ministry of Health reveals that till 1st June 25, there are 3758 active cases, out of which Kerala has 1336, Maharashtra, 467, Delhi, 375, Gujarat 265, Karnataka 234, West Bengal 205, Tamil Nadu 185 and UP 117 respectively. Though there is no reason to panic but health experts do urge caution. These subvariants are more infectious, even though symptoms remain mild.

Response to the recent resurgence demonstrates that India has built up a robust and agile mechanism for monitoring zoonotic and infectious diseases. Health authorities have increased genome sequencing and surveillance to track the spread. Advisories have been issued as per the guidelines prescribed by WHO. Collaborative surveillance, community protection, clinical care, access to and delivery of medical counter measures and coordination to monitor SARS-CoV-2 circulation and evolution, which have been followed by Indian medical authorities. It is reported by WHO that since early 2025, global SARS-CoV-2 variant trends have slightly shifted. Circulation of NB.1.8.1 variant is increasing, reaching 10.7% of global sequences reported as of mid-May 2025.