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Several major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Ahmedabad, are witnessing a noticeable uptick in Covid-19 cases, prompting health officials to ramp up monitoring and reinforce preventive measures. While the overall number of infections remains low compared to previous waves, the recent surge has led to increased vigilance in hospitals and public health departments across affected states.
Mumbai Sees Sharp Increase
Mumbai has reported 95 new Covid-19 cases in May alone, a significant jump given that the entire state of Maharashtra logged just 106 cases since January. Sixteen patients are currently hospitalised, with many being transferred from KEM Hospital to Seven Hills Hospital to prevent further transmission. Health workers are now testing all patients with flu-like symptoms or severe respiratory illness for Covid-19.
Chennai and Tamil Nadu on Alert
In Tamil Nadu, 12 new cases have been detected in Puducherry, and Chennai is seeing a shift in diagnosis, with more fevers now attributed to Covid-19 rather than influenza. Some hospitals have postponed major surgeries, including organ transplants and heart operations, to minimize infection risks. Dr. Subramaniam Swaminathan, an infectious diseases expert, noted, “Two weeks ago, most of our positive samples were influenza A or B. Now, it’s Covid-19.” The state’s public health director, Dr. T S Selvavinayagam, emphasized that while there is no need for panic, caution is advised in crowded spaces.
Ahmedabad and Other Cities Report Cases
Ahmedabad recorded seven new cases in a single day—an unusual spike for a city that previously averaged just one case per month over the past year. All affected individuals are in home isolation, and their samples have been sent for genomic testing to identify potential new variants.
Situation in Other States
Karnataka has confirmed 16 active cases, while Kerala leads the country with 95 active cases as of May 19, 2025. Across India, the total number of active Covid-19 cases stands at 257, with most cases reported as mild and not requiring hospitalization. Pune remains on alert, having reserved hospital beds as a precaution, but currently has no active cases in public hospitals.
Expert Advice and Public Health Measures
Despite the recent rise, health authorities maintain that the situation is under control. The World Health Organization declared the pandemic phase over in May 2023, but experts stress that Covid-19 continues to circulate globally at low levels, with periodic seasonal peaks. Doctors are advising vulnerable groups—such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions—to resume basic precautions like mask-wearing in enclosed spaces and frequent handwashing. Influenza vaccination is also recommended to reduce the risk and severity of co-infections.
A review by India’s Ministry of Health concluded that there is no cause for panic, as almost all new cases are mild and the healthcare system remains prepared. However, authorities are stepping up surveillance and testing, especially for patients with influenza-like illnesses and severe acute respiratory infection.
“Covid-19 never truly disappeared—it has been circulating at low levels with seasonal peaks,” said Dr. T S Selvavinayagam, urging the public to stay vigilant but not alarmed.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information available as of May 23, 2025, from reputable news sources and official health department updates. The Covid-19 situation is evolving, and readers are advised to follow guidance from local health authorities and consult official sources for the latest information.
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