The number of deaths due to Covid-19 is on the rise, with seven fatalities reported in the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, new infections, totaling 743, were slightly lower compared to yesterday’s 797, marking the highest count since May 19 when the figure was 865. Five deaths were reported on Friday, predominantly in cases with co-morbidities.
According to ministry data, three deaths were reported in Kerala, two in Karnataka, and one each in Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh. Cases of the JN.1 sub-variant are also increasing, with 178 cases reported from nine states as of Friday. Goa reported the highest count at 47, followed by 41 in Kerala.
Other states where JN.1 cases have been detected include 36 in Gujarat, 34 in Karnataka, nine in Maharashtra, and four each in Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. Additionally, two cases were reported from Telangana, and one from Delhi.
As the new year celebrations approach and the winter season heightens concerns of a potential surge in Covid cases, State Governments are cautiously anticipating the situation. The Karnataka health department has mandated home isolation for Covid-positive patients. Presently, the State has 34 cases of the JN.1 variant. Maharashtra Health Minister Tanaji Sawant has urged people and institutions in the state to stay vigilant for the next 10 to 15 days in light of the resurgence of Covid-19 in the country.
“People should strictly adhere to the rules to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. While people are excited to welcome the new year, large gatherings increase the risk of its transmission,” he emphasised.
“The recent surge in COVID-19 cases across India necessitates immediate and proactive measures to combat any potential escalation in the state. In continuation of the earlier communication, you are requested to implement the action points provided therein and to remain alert to address any exigency,” stated Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra in a letter to all medical colleges and CDMOs in the Odisha Government.
According to government data, the active Covid-19 tally also witnessed a decrease, with 3,997 cases reported so far, down from 4,091 the previous day. The updated data at 8 am indicated that the total number of cases stood at 4.50 crore (4,50,12,484).
The death toll has risen to 5,33,358, with seven fatalities reported, resulting in a case fatality rate of 1.18 percent, as stated by the health ministry.
In the last 24 hours, 830 individuals recovered from Covid-19, bringing the total number of recovered cases to 4.44 crore (4,44,75,076). The national recovery rate stands at 98.81 percent, according to the ministry.
On Thursday, the country recorded 702 fresh cases of the infection and six fatalities, according to the ministry.
The resurgence of cases is being closely monitored, particularly due to concerns about the coronavirus JN.1 variant, classified as a ‘variant of interest’ by the World Health Organisation (WHO). JN.1 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant and has been identified as the most prevalent strain in the US, accounting for over 44 percent of cases there.
Experts caution that while JN.1 is highly transmissible, it primarily causes mild symptoms similar to a common cold, affecting the upper respiratory tract, and that the overall risk is low. They emphasise not to panic and stress that viral respiratory illnesses typically see a spike during the winter months.
As the New Year approaches, experts advise people with comorbidities and the elderly to avoid crowded places and wear face masks, while asserting that there is no need to implement public health measures at this time.
