COVID-19 cases surge again in India, infections cross 6,000

India is witnessing a fresh surge in COVID-19 cases, with the total number of infections surpassing 6,000, according to the latest data from the Union Health Ministry. Kerala remains the worst-affected state, followed by Gujarat, West Bengal, and Delhi.

The nationwide death toll has reached 65, with six fatalities reported in the last 24 hours.

In the past 72 hours, India recorded 769 new infections. West Bengal reported 71 new cases, while 53 patients have recovered. State officials said the situation remains under control.

To bolster preparedness, the central government has instructed states to stock essential supplies, including oxygen, isolation beds, medicines, and ventilators. COVID-response drills are also being conducted nationwide.

Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director of Central Health Services, has held two high-level meetings on the country’s preparedness. Active case counts currently stand at 728 in Delhi, 607 in Maharashtra, and 423 in Karnataka. Precautionary measures have been reinforced in all affected states.

Health experts attribute the recent rise to new variants, including the XFG variant. So far, 163 XFG cases have been identified in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Gujarat.

Amid rising concerns, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed the public after a high-level meeting at Nabanna, urging people not to panic. "There is no reason for unnecessary fear. The state is fully prepared," she assured.