India's COVID-19 cases surge to 7,400
India's active COVID-19 cases have climbed to 7,400, with 269 new infections and nine deaths reported in a single day. The recent uptick is linked to newer Omicron subvariants (LF.7, JN.1, XFG, and NB.1.8.1), which spread more easily than earlier strains. Health officials are reminding everyone to stay alert as the virus makes a comeback in some regions.
Authorities are urging states to ramp up testing
Maharashtra and Kerala are seeing the most impact, with most of the recent deaths coming from these states. Karnataka also reported a noticeable jump, logging 132 new cases in one day, while Gujarat saw an increase too. Most severe outcomes have been among older people or those with health issues, but symptoms remain mild for many vaccinated folks. Authorities are urging states to ramp up testing and keep up with masks and hand hygiene—just the basics we all know by now—to help keep things under control.