India Records 300 New COVID-19 Cases Amid Surge Driven by Four Emerging Variants

New Delhi, 4 June, 2025: India reported nearly 300 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 4,302, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Kerala continues to have the highest number of active cases. Two more COVID-related deaths were also reported, bringing the death toll for the year to seven. Health officials are actively monitoring the situation and have launched precautionary measures.

According to PTI, the spike in the number of cases is being driven by four new variants of the virus— LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and the newly identified NB.1.8.1 variant. Recently detected in Tamil Nadu, the NB.1.8.1 variant has been categorised as a "Variant Under Monitoring" by the World Health Organisation’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution due to its significant mutations. Although its overall impact on transmission and severity is still unclear, experts remain cautious.

In Himachal Pradesh, the first case of the current surge was reported from Nahan in Sirmaur district, involving an 82-year-old woman who tested positive via rapid test. Though advised to be hospitalised, she opted for home care. Her sample is being sent for genomic sequencing, and health workers are tracing her contacts.

Maharashtra also saw a notable rise in cases on Tuesday, reporting 86 new infections and bringing its total to 959 since January 1. The state has seen four fatalities since Monday, with deaths reported in Nagpur, Chandrapur, and Miraj.

In response to the growing numbers, Kerala’s Health Department issued fresh COVID-19 treatment guidelines and ordered mock drills across public and private hospitals. Healthcare institutions have been directed to follow the ABC Guidelines 03 from June 2023 and participate in mock drills via a Google Form provided by the department.

While most new cases are reported to have mild symptoms, experts believe that waning immunity from previous infections or vaccinations, combined with virus mutations, is contributing to the current resurgence. 

Authorities continue to emphasise the importance of vigilance, testing, and timely medical attention as they monitor the evolving situation.

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