Covid cases in Ludhiana: Health Dept asks residents to be cautious

A sudden surge in Covid-19 cases has rekindled memories of the pandemic’s harshest days in Ludhiana, with 73 total cases and three fatalities reported from the district so far.

Between May 28 and June 21, Ludhiana recorded three Covid-related fatalities (two from urban and one from a rural area), underscoring ongoing health risks for vulnerable individuals. On May 28, a 40-year-old man referred from Ludhiana passed away at GMCH, Chandigarh after testing positive for Covid. A 69-year-old woman from Koom Kalan, who had been in poor health for months and was diagnosed with typhoid, also tested positive on May 25 and succumbed to the virus on June 6 at GMCH. Most recently, on June 21, an 82-year-old man from the Samrala Road area, with pre-existing cardiac conditions, died of a heart attack at a private hospital near Sherpur Chowk; a Covid test conducted post-admission was positive. Health officials note that he had no travel history and his immediate contacts remain asymptomatic.

Currently, 19 people are under home isolation and there are 22 active cases in the district. The uptick has triggered concern across the city and prompted renewed appeals from the district health authorities for caution and proactive community response.

While the overall positivity rate remains moderate, the fatalities have set off alarm bells, especially in light of the upcoming monsoon season—traditionally a time when viral infections tend to increase.

“We are closely monitoring the situation. People must not ignore flu-like symptoms. Early reporting and testing remain the most effective line of defence,” said Civil Surgeon Dr Ramandeep Kaur.

The Civil Surgeon has urged city residents to remain vigilant, emphasising the importance of wearing masks in crowded areas, maintaining hand hygiene and seeking medical attention if experiencing symptoms. “We must not let our guard down,” she said, adding that precautionary measures are essential to prevent further spread of the virus. The Health Department has reactivated rapid response teams and strengthened surveillance at hospitals.

For many citizens, the spike has brought back difficult memories. “It’s a bit unsettling,” said Shweta Mahajan, a schoolteacher from Model Town. “Seeing people in masks again reminds me of the early days of 2020.”

Public notices have been issued urging residents to avoid crowded indoor spaces, maintain hygiene and reconsider attending large gatherings unless necessary. Private hospitals have also been asked to share daily reports on respiratory illness cases.

Vaccination centres have reported a modest uptick in booster shot inquiries, especially from senior citizens. As Ludhiana recalibrates its daily rhythms, one thing is clear—the virus hasn’t gone away and the path forward will depend on a delicate balance between preparedness and public cooperation.