Covid cases up 1,300% in a week, Kerala worst hit

In just over a week, India recorded a staggering 1,300% jump in Covid cases, with Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi, West Bengal and Karnataka sharing the maximum load. Doctors, however, say the situation is not alarming as the infection is self-limiting.

On May 22, the country reported 257 cases, but by June 1, the number surged to 3,758. According to the Union Health Ministry’s Covid dashboard, 363 new cases were logged between May 31 and June 1 alone. This year, 28 Covid-related deaths have been reported.

Kerala remains the worst affected with 1,400 active cases, followed by Maharashtra (485), Delhi (436), Gujarat (320), West Bengal (287) and Karnataka (238). Despite the sharp rise, doctors assure that the situation is not alarming as the infection is largely self-limiting.

Dr Chandrakant Lahariya, a consultant physician, says, “Covid is now a self-limiting illness, with nearly all cases mild or asymptomatic. Viruses persist in the population and follow a seasonal pattern, spiking every 8-9 months. Since COVID-19 is a respiratory illness, it behaves similarly. There is no new variant, so there’s no need for worry.”

Meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George has urged people to wear masks in crowded places, especially those with symptoms like cold, cough, sore throat or breathlessness. “The variant is less severe, but it spreads quickly. Precautions remain crucial,” she said.

In response to Kerala’s surge, neighbouring Karnataka has also advised the use of masks in public and early reporting of symptoms. Dr Dhruv Chauhan, spokesperson, Indian Medical Association Junior Doctors Network, said, “The death rate is negligible as those who succumbed had comorbidities. Masks are recommended in crowded spaces and basic hygiene like sanitising hands remains essential. Symptoms like fever, headache, or body ache should prompt medical consultation.”