Rising COVID-19 cases in India

As per the Director General of Health Services meeting with ICMR and NCDC of May 21, 2025, India has reported a total of 257 active COVID-19 cases, with 164 new cases logged in the past week . While these numbers are relatively low compared to previous waves, the emergence of the JN.1 variant, a sub-lineage of Omicron BA.2.86, has prompted health authorities to remain vigilant . 

Let's look through the latest updates and help you stay informed and prepared.

What Is COVID-19 and Why Is It Called That?

COVID-19 stands for "Coronavirus Disease 2019." The name was designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to avoid stigmatization and to standardize references to the disease.

What Are the Latest COVID-19 Cases in India?

Recent Case Numbers

• Total covid-19 cases in India: Indian health authorities held review meetings on Monday chaired by the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) to assess the situation, official sources in the Ministry of Health said. India has crossed 4.5 crore since the start of the pandemic.
   
• COVID-19 cases today in India: According to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Active COVID-19 cases in India in the last 24 hours, 257 new cases have been reported, all classified as mild.
   

Regional Highlights

According to Money Control news COVID-19 cases based on the cities in India

• Kerala: Reported the highest number of new infections with 69 cases since May 12.
• Maharashtra: Recorded 44 new cases, with Mumbai reporting 95 new infections in May.
• Tamil Nadu: Logged 34 new cases during the same period.
   

Health experts continue to monitor COVID-19 new cases in India in the last 24 hours, especially in urban areas, to track any early signs of localized outbreaks.

Recognizing COVID-19 Symptoms

Most people with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue.

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or a runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
   

Note: Symptoms can vary, and some individuals may remain asymptomatic.

Managing and Recovering from COVID-19

Treatment Options

• Home Care: Most mild cases can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms.
• Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical care if experiencing difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or bluish lips or face.
   

Recovery Tips

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
• Stay hydrated.
• Engage in light physical activity as tolerated.
• Monitor symptoms and consult healthcare providers as needed.
  
   

COVID-19 Vaccination in India

Where to Get Vaccinated

• CoWIN Portal: Visit CoWIN to find vaccination centers and book appointments.
• Local Health Centers: Vaccines are available at government and private health facilities across the country.
   

Post-Vaccination Care

• What Food to Avoid After COVID-19 Vaccine: While no specific foods are strictly prohibited, it's advisable to avoid alcohol and junk food immediately after vaccination to allow the immune system to respond effectively.
   

Dr. Guleria has been a leading voice in India's COVID-19 response. He says it's important to take your booster vaccine and keep following safety steps like wearing a mask and washing your hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it called COVID-19?

COVID-19 stands for "Coronavirus Disease 2019," indicating the year it was first identified.

2. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, and difficulty breathing.

3. How to recover from COVID 19?

Most individuals recover at home with rest, hydration, and symptomatic treatment. Severe cases require medical attention.

4. How to treat COVID 19?

Treatment depends on symptom severity. Mild cases involve home care, while severe cases may need hospitalization and specialized treatments.

5. Where to get COVID-19 vaccine in India?

Vaccines are available through the CoWIN portal and at various health centers nationwide.

6. What food to avoid after COVID-19 vaccine?

Avoid alcohol and unhealthy foods post-vaccination to support your immune response.

Conclusion

While the current rise in COVID-19 cases in India is modest, staying informed and cautious is essential. Continue practicing good hygiene, monitor your health, and consult healthcare providers if symptoms arise. Vaccination remains a critical tool in combating the pandemic, so ensure you and your loved ones are up to date with your shots. Stay safe and proactive in protecting your health.

Read Also:

1. How Post Covid Complications May Affect Multiple Organs
2. Omicron Variant - Would We Need A Third & Fourth Dose To Fight?
3. What is the Coviself Testing Kit? How do you use it?
4. Delta Plus Virus | The New Covid Variant and its Impact

References: 

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7256162/
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7431238/
3. https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/covid-19-cases-india-singapore-hong-kong-bangkok-numbers-rise-asia-is-it-safe-to-travel-doctors-advisory-variant-jn1-101747725706680.html
4. https://www.moneycontrol.com/city/doctors-on-alert-as-covid-cases-rise-how-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-gujarat-are-responding-to-regional-surge-article-13036850.html