In India, covid-19 cases is surging, on Monday, 1009 Active cases reported in the country. The number of Covid-19 cases stood at 257 on May 19. The sudden spike has largely driven by rising infections in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, health authorities confirmed.
Two New COVID Variants Detected in India, Says Health Ministry
The Health Ministry has confirmed the presence of two new COVID-19 variants — NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — in India.
- One case of NB.1.8.1 was found in Tamil Nadu in April.
- Four cases of LF.7 were reported in May.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled both variants as “Variants Under Monitoring” (VUMs). This means they are not considered dangerous or severe like “Variants of Concern” or “Variants of Interest.”
These variants are believed to be contributing to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in China and other parts of Asia, officials said.

Covid-19 Active Cases in India:
In India, 1009 active cases reported as per Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
- Kerala: 430 Active Cases
- Maharashtra: 209 Active Cases
- Delhi: 104 Active Cases
- Gujrat: 83 Active Case
- Uttar Pradesh: 15 active Cases
- Rajasthan: 13 Active cases
- West Bengal: 12 Active Cases
- Puducherry: 9 Active Cases
- Haryana: 9 Active Cases
- Andhra Pradesh: 4 Active Cases
- Madhya Pradesh: 2 Active Cases
- Chhattisgarh, Goa, Telangana: 1 Active Cases
In India 752 cases increased, in Maharashtra 4 Death, Kerala 2 Death, Karnataka 1 Death reported.
Also read: Covid-19 Cases surge in Singapore, Hong Kong and parts of Asia
No Evidence of More Severe COVID Variants, Says Union Health Ministry
The Union Health Ministry has addressed concerns over a rise in COVID-19 cases in countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, and others in recent weeks.
In an official statement, the Ministry clarified that, based on information received from the respective National IHR (International Health Regulations) focal points, there is no evidence that the currently circulating variants are more transmissible or cause more severe illness than the earlier strains.
“The Union Health Ministry remains vigilant and, through its various agencies, is closely monitoring the global and domestic situation,” the statement added.