India reports a surge in COVID-19 cases in May 2025 due to Omicron variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. Learn about symptoms, affected states, testing rules, vaccine boosters, travel guidelines, and health tips to stay safe.
India Sees Mild COVID-19 Surge in May 2025: New Variants, Symptoms, and What You Need to Know
India is witnessing a mild but perceptible surge in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks of May 2025. The fresh spike is primarily due to Omicron sub-variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, both of which are more infectious, although usually cause mild symptoms in those affected. While hospital admissions are minimal, health authorities are advising people to remain vigilant, particularly the older population and individuals with pre-existing illnesses.
National COVID-19 Situation at a Glance
According to the Union Health Ministry and ICMR statistics:
- Active COVID-19 cases in India: 1,010
- New cases (past 10 days): 1,010
- COVID-related fatalities in May 2025: 12
- Recovery rate: 98.8%
- Positivity rate: ~0.8% across India
A majority of the deaths have occurred among those with comorbidities or advanced age. India is not witnessing a new wave as yet, but the rising trend has raised mild alarm.
Get Ready to Meet the New Variants: NB.1.8.1 and LF.7
The new variants belong to the Omicron lineage, which spread quickly and has mild symptoms. Though not termed “variants of concern” by the WHO, they are under close observation all over the world owing to high transmission rates in nations such as the UK, Japan, and India.
✅ Shared Symptoms:
- Low-grade fever (99–100.5°F)
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- Fatigue and body ache
- Nasal discharge or blockage
- Headache
- In extreme cases: loss of taste or smell
Until now, no serious instances of pneumonia or oxygen dependence have been reported.
State-Wise Breakdown: Where Are Cases On the Rise?
1. Maharashtra
- Active cases total: 209 cases
- In Mumbai alone: 242 new cases in May (35 new)
- Hospitals have tightened mask policies and reopened COVID wards as a precautionary measure.
2. Kerala
- Most affected areas: Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam
- Government in alert mode with hospitals instructed to ramp up testing capacity.
3. Delhi
- Cases per day: 40–60
- RT-PCR positivity rate: Below 0.5% but creeping upward
- No public restrictions so far, but face-masking in government offices recommended.
Other states such as Karnataka, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu have had sporadic clusters but are still under control.
???? Testing & Quarantine Guidelines
India has not made mass testing compulsory, but state health authorities are promoting targeted RT-PCR testing among symptomatic people and high-risk groups.
✅ Testing Protocols:
- RT-PCR tests available in govt & private hospitals
- Rapid Antigen Test kits available at home
- No institutional quarantine; 7-day home isolation recommended for positive patients
- Hospitals can suggest a CT scan or blood test for high-risk patients
Vaccine & Booster Dose Status (CoWIN Update)
Up to May 2025, India has given more than 220 crore vaccine doses. Booster (precautionary) doses are strongly advised for:
- Individuals aged 60+
- Frontline health workers
- Immunocompromised individuals
✅ CoWIN Platform Services:
- Booking for booster doses
- Downloading certificates
- Accessing vaccine history
???? Newer booster vaccines such as mRNA and nasal spray vaccines are now available in selected cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
✈️ Travel & Public Health Advisory
Domestic Travel
- No travel restrictions
- Wearing of masks encouraged on trains, buses, and flights
- Thermal screening at some airports and metro stations
International Travel
- RT-PCR required for travelers from countries that are reporting surges (updated every two weeks)
- Random airport testing resumed at Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai
- Air Suvidha portal is still inactive, but may be brought back online if case numbers increase
Government Action & Response
The government is not planning a lockdown, but has asked states to make preparations for Localized Containment in case clusters increase.
⚙️ Key Measures Implemented:
- Hospitals hoarding antivirals such as Molnupiravir
- Returning masks to hospitals and crowded places
- Do’s and Don’ts public awareness campaigns
- Telemedicine services operational for mild cases
The Health Ministry urges citizens to stay away from panic and stick to elementary COVID guidelines.
Dr. Randeep Guleria, ex-Director AIIMS, said:
“This isn’t a wave, but a ripple. But it reminds us that COVID-19 hasn’t vanished. People with underlying conditions should take early precautions and not ignore mild symptoms.”
✅ Safety Tips to Remain Safe in 2025
- Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas
- Wash your hands frequently or use sanitizer
- Stay home if you’re unwell
- Test yourself at the onset of symptoms
- Avoid contact with older adults if symptomatic
- Get your booster shot if due
- Exercise and eat well to have robust immunity
Conclusion
The sudden spike in COVID-19 cases in India caused by Omicron’s NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 variants is not presently an occasion for alarm, but it does call for awareness and responsibility. As cases are slowly going up in urban clusters, especially in Maharashtra, Kerala, and Delhi, preemptive vaccination, masking, and self-monitoring are crucial.
India has managed the past waves well, and with proactive attitude and healthcare preparedness, this small surge can be taken care of without any issues. Do not lower your guard yet.
For live updates, check the official COVID dashboard:
https://covid19dashboard.mohfw.gov.in
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