COVID-19 Cases Rise Again in India, New Variants Under Watch

COVID-19 cases are once again on the rise in India, with 7,383 active cases currently reported. The most affected states include Kerala (2,007 cases), Gujarat (1,441), and West Bengal (747). In Jabalpur (MP), a 27-year-old woman died of COVID a day after childbirth. Maharashtra also recorded one death and 53 new cases.

As per data from the Health Ministry till 8 AM on June 15, 97 COVID-related deaths have occurred in the country since January 2025, with 10 deaths recorded on a single day (Saturday) — the highest for the year so far.

Uttar Pradesh has instructed hospitals to stay on alert and ensure availability of medicines, PPE kits, oxygen, ICU beds, and testing. In Kerala, adherence to COVID guidelines has been reinforced. Meanwhile, Karnataka’s Gulbarga Institute has set up a special 25-bed COVID ward, including ICU and maternity beds.

ICMR has identified four new variants in India: LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1. Among them, JN.1 is the most widespread. It has around 30 mutations that weaken immunity and may lead to prolonged symptoms. It is a sub-lineage of Omicron’s BA.2.86.

According to Johns Hopkins University, JN.1 spreads faster than previous variants but is not currently classified as highly severe. WHO has labeled it a “variant of interest” but not a cause for high concern yet.

Experts suggest continued vigilance, especially mask usage and avoiding crowded places.