COVID-19 Cases Surge in India, Kerala Most Affected
India is witnessing a significant rise in COVID-19 cases, surpassing 5,000, with Kerala being the hardest hit. The central health ministry has directed states to ensure essential medical resources are available as they prepare for potential surges. Recent data shows a notable increase in active cases, prompting the government to conduct mock drills to assess readiness. Technical review meetings have been held to evaluate the current situation and preparedness measures, with a focus on monitoring influenza-like illnesses and severe respiratory infections. Stay informed on the latest developments in the ongoing pandemic response.
| Jun 6, 2025, 15:24 IST
COVID-19 Situation in India
According to data released by the central health ministry on Friday, COVID-19 cases in India have exceeded 5,000, with Kerala being the most impacted state. In the last 24 hours, there was an increase of nearly 500 cases, bringing the total to 5,364, alongside four new fatalities. Kerala reported the highest number of active cases at 1,679, followed by Gujarat (615), West Bengal (596), and Delhi (592). During this period, Kerala recorded two deaths, while Karnataka and Punjab each reported one. Although 498 new cases were identified in a single day, 764 patients were also reported as recovered, discharged, or migrated.
Government Response to Rising Cases
In light of the rising COVID-19 cases, the central health ministry has instructed all states to ensure the availability of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medications. Most cases are mild and managed at home, but the ministry emphasizes the need for preparedness to handle a potential surge. To assess readiness for COVID-19, the central government is conducting mock drills. Official sources indicate that since January of this year, there have been 4,724 reported cases and 55 confirmed deaths, with only 257 active patients recorded on May 22.
Technical Review Meetings Held
Notably, on June 2 and 3, a series of technical review meetings were conducted under the leadership of Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services (DGHS). These meetings involved representatives from the disaster management cell, emergency management response (EMR) cell, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), and hospitals from the central government, along with representatives from all states and union territories. The discussions focused on evaluating the current COVID-19 situation and preparedness measures. As of June 4, IDSP monitoring units at the state and district levels are closely tracking influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI).