As India grapples with a surge in COVID-19 cases, reporting 743 new infections, Karnataka takes precautionary measures with 201 fresh cases, while Odisha intensifies surveillance in response to 14 new cases, prompting nationwide concerns amidst cold weather and the emergence of the JN.1 variant.
India reported 743 new COVID-19 infections on Saturday, with 3,997 active cases, according to the Union health ministry. Seven fatalities were recorded in the last 24 hours, distributed across Kerala, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Tamil Nadu. The rise in cases has been attributed to cold weather and the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant.
While daily cases were in double digits until December 5, the numbers have seen an increase recently. Despite the surge, it's noteworthy that the daily numbers were once in lakhs during the peak of the pandemic in early 2020. The country has witnessed over 4.5 crore infections and 5.3 lakh deaths in four years.
On a positive note, over 4.4 crore people have recovered, resulting in a national recovery rate of 98.81 percent. The health ministry's website reports the administration of 220.67 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses across the country.
In Karnataka, 201 new cases and one death were reported in the last 24 hours, bringing the total active cases to 833. The bulletin indicates that 60 patients were discharged, and a total of 7,060 tests were conducted, with a 2.84 percent positivity rate and a 0.49 percent case fatality rate.
Bengaluru Urban district conducted the highest number of tests, revealing 69 positive cases. The deceased individual, aged 74, from Mysuru, had comorbidities and symptoms of breathlessness.
Dakshina Kannada district reported 13 new cases, contributing to a total of 25 active cases. The state government's cabinet sub-committee on COVID-19 in Karnataka has advised precautionary measures, including wearing masks, avoiding sending symptomatic children to schools, and following COVID-appropriate behavior.
Meanwhile, Odisha has reported 14 new COVID-19 cases this month, prompting the state government to enhance surveillance and testing in government-run medical colleges. The Public Health Director has emphasized increased ILI and SARI surveillance, strict home isolation protocols, and community awareness campaigns.
Despite the challenges, one person in Odisha has recovered, leaving 13 active cases. The Health and Family Welfare department has urged elderly individuals and those with comorbidities to use facemasks and avoid crowded places.