Kerala is facing a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases as the state recorded 170 new infections and three deaths in a single day, marking the biggest spike in recent times. This surge has pushed the active case count in Kerala to 2,223, making it the state with the highest number of ongoing infections in India.
The increase in cases was confirmed on Tuesday after a detailed review by the State Level Rapid Response Team. Health authorities said that many of the new patients are also suffering from other health issues, which makes their condition more serious. The government is now taking urgent steps to prevent further spread.
The districts of Ernakulam, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram are seeing the most cases. Ernakulam reported 431 active cases, followed by Kottayam with 426 and Thiruvananthapuram with 365. These areas are now under strict watch, and health officials are increasing testing and monitoring.
Hospitals have been instructed to carry out Covid-19 tests on anyone showing signs of illness such as cough, fever, sore throat, or breathing problems. The health department has also told all hospitals to ensure oxygen is readily available. Masks are now required in all hospital settings, and people are being urged to wear them in public and while traveling.
To find out which variant is responsible for the current wave, genomic sequencing is being carried out across the state. Early reports show that the Omicron JN.1 sub-variants, LF.7 and XFG, are the most common. These variants are not known to cause severe illness, but they spread very quickly, which increases the risk of more infections.
As cases rise, people are being warned not to go to hospitals unless necessary. Those with minor symptoms are encouraged to stay at home and avoid public spaces. The public has been reminded to follow basic hygiene rules like regular handwashing and the use of hand sanitiser.
This surge in Kerala comes as India is also seeing a steady rise in Covid-19 numbers. The Union Health Ministry reported 306 new cases nationwide in the past 24 hours, with a total of 7,121 active cases across the country. Although these numbers are still low compared to previous waves, health experts are watching closely.
The Kerala government is now on alert and taking proactive steps to control the spread. Hospitals and clinics are being prepared for a possible rise in admissions. The state is also working with private health centers to ensure quick support if more cases appear.
The rise in infections has caused concern among the public, especially those with elderly family members or pre-existing medical conditions. Many families are once again limiting travel and avoiding large gatherings to stay safe.
Kerala had previously been praised for its effective Covid-19 response. However, this new wave shows that the virus can return at any time, especially when public attention drops. Health teams are now trying to raise awareness and push people to take preventive actions.
Even though the current variants are not very dangerous for healthy individuals, their fast spread can overwhelm hospitals if not controlled in time. This is why early detection, isolation, and proper care are now more important than ever.
The Kerala Health Department has stressed that there is no need to panic, but people must stay alert. Covid-19 is not over, and it can still cause serious problems, especially for high-risk groups. The best way to stay protected is to follow the rules, get tested if symptoms appear, and act responsibly.
