The sudden wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has not affected India, but several territories across the globe. Driven by the latest variant NB.1.8.1, this situation has prompted the vigilance of the health agencies. In this article, we explore the surge, the regions most impacted by the severity, and what you can do as a precaution to yourself and your surroundings.
What is accelerating the COVID-19 surge?
There are two factors behind this COVID-19 resurgence:
Huge transmissibility due to emerging variants
India's Union Health Ministry has reported that the country has identified an acceleration in COVID-19 cases influenced by the latest variant, B. 1.8.1. Approximately 2,710 active cases have been recorded, as this new variant is susceptible to affecting the immune system and spreading infection.
Decreased seasonal immunity
Various communities are now entering into seasons with the activity of the respiratory virus. Additionally, the uptake of Covid-19 booster doses has decreased, and the natural immunity that developed earlier in the first surge may not protect humans against this new variant.
Also Read: COVID-19 Surge in 2025 in Asia: Impact, causes and the safety measures
Regional overview of the COVID-19 spike
Increased case numbers in India
As of now, India has recorded 4,300-plus cases. 300 new COVID-19 positive cases within 24 hours.
The states are on high alert
Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Kerala are facing significant increases in COVID-19 cases. Mumbai has reported over 500-plus cases recently, followed by Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. As of June 5, 2025, 60 positive cases, along with a 7-month-old newborn, have been recorded.
Hospitalization and fatalities
India has reported 37 deaths across the country due to the recent surge of COVID-19, with Maharashtra and Kerala being affected in a major manner. Hospitalization is not proportionally increased, even after the seriousness of the new virus is documented.
Global context of the recent evolution of COVID-19
Europe and Southeast Asia
Some countries of Southeast Asia, like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand, have reported rising cases due to the new variants N.B. 1.8.1. Tourist attraction countries like the Maldives, Egypt, the United States, Australia, Ireland, and different parts of Europe have also witnessed the uptick.
Surveillance of the World Health Organization (WHO)
The World Health Organization has advised all its member states to adopt an integrated approach for managing this catastrophic disease, in line with the Director-General's standing recommendation. It advised administering the lesson from the sub-national and national evaluations into pandemic-related policies and plans. Additionally, it has mandated the implementation of national and sub-national capacities to prevent, respond to, and prepare for COVID-19.
Examining the risk
The severity is still low
The recent evidence has suggested that the variants do not lead to severe illness compared to the previous variant, Omicron. The demand for ICU and hospital admissions has not significantly increased even in the regions.
Vulnerable groups are prone to a higher risk
The senior citizens facing chronic illness, along with the cancer patients and people who have undergone a transplant, have remained at a huge risk. Even the mild symptoms in these specific groups require emergency medical intervention.
Public Health response and recommended measures
Social precautions
People need to follow a five-fold strategy that includes tracking, testing, treating, monitoring illness, and vaccination. In addition, the reintroduction of mask application is required in indoor settings and crowded places, especially in the case of vulnerable people. Following that, staying at home and practicing hand hygiene are more critical in the case of sickness.
Vaccination process
The national authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO) have stressed the timely boosters, especially for the medically vulnerable and elderly people who are exposed to and affected by the new variant of COVID-19. No evidence has emerged to suggest the need for an urgent vaccination process.
Targeted surveillance
The government is focusing on implementing genomic testing in the hotspot areas. They must ensure an adequate hospital capacity wherever and whenever it is required.
Travel advice
International travellers to Southeast Asia and other hotspots, including India, are required to remain vigilant. They need to maintain proper protocols as a precaution to stay away from the recent surge of COVID-19. The public health agencies are updating the travel advisory frequently to stay informed in this regard.
The way forward
● The resurgence of the different phase is required to be similar to that implemented in past COVID-19 waves.
● Targeted boosters and vaccination campaigns must remain at the focal point.
● People should stay alert to monitor their symptoms, maintain proper hygiene protocols, and be aware of any policy changes.
Conclusion
As COVID-19 is fueled by the latest variant, NB.1.8.1, the current data do not reflect the significant severity of hospitalization. However, senior citizens and those already in a critical medical condition should take precautions and remain vigilant by maintaining COVID-19 protocols, such as practicing hygiene, seeking medical attention, and wearing masks in indoor and crowded settings.