This surge is accompanied by worries about the increasing prevalence of the JN.1 sub-variant...
Digital Desk: India experienced a concerning spike in COVID-19 infections with a single-day rise of 752 cases, marking the highest since May 21, according to the latest update from the Union Health Ministry. The active cases have surpassed the 3,000 mark, reaching 3,420. This surge is accompanied by worries about the increasing prevalence of the JN.1 sub-variant.
In the past 24 hours, four new deaths were reported, two from Kerala and one each in Rajasthan and Karnataka, bringing the total death toll to 5,33,332. The case fatality rate was recorded at 1.18%, emphasizing the severity of the ongoing situation.
As of the latest update, the total COVID-19 case tally in the country stands at 4.50 crore (4,50,07,964). Notably, 17 states witnessed a rise in active cases, with Kerala (266), Karnataka (70), Maharashtra (15), Tamil Nadu (13), and Gujarat (12) being among the affected regions.
The Health Ministry's data also revealed that 325 individuals recovered from COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, contributing to a total of 4,44,71,212 recoveries. The national recovery rate remains high at 98.81%.
The Central Government has reassured the public that the current spike in Covid-19 cases is not a cause for concern, urging people not to panic. However, individuals with comorbidities are advised to wear face masks as a precautionary measure.
In response to the rising cases, the Bihar government has issued directives to increase COVID-19 RT-PCR testing in all districts and hospitals, with random testing of arrivals at Patna, Gaya, and Darbhanga airports.
Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, on Wednesday, emphasized the need for vigilance against emerging strains of Covid-19. The government has reported 22 cases of the JN.1 sub-variant across the country until December 21. Of these, 19 were traced in Goa and one each in Kerala and Maharashtra.
Notably, the JN.1 variant, a descendant of the Omicron lineage, has been classified as a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organisation and is rapidly spreading.
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