Covid-19 cases rise in Maharashtra and Delhi; Health Ministry urges states to step up vigilance

India is witnessing a rise in Covid-19 cases, particularly in Maharashtra, with Mumbai and Pune reporting infections over the past few days. While the absolute numbers remain relatively low, the trend has prompted the Union Health Ministry to issue an advisory to all states and union territories, calling for reinforced public health measures.

The advisory, issued by Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, encourages increased testing, timely genome sequencing, and close monitoring of new cases. Officials emphasised that while the current situation is not alarming, early containment and preventive actions are essential to avoid any escalation.

Mumbai, one of the country’s densest metros, has reported an uptick, though most cases have been mild and managed at home. Experts believe factors such as climate shifts, travel activity, and reduced mask compliance could be contributing to the rise.

Health infrastructure is also being assessed, with hospitals directed to review their readiness. "States must ensure that oxygen availability, ICU beds, and critical drugs are stocked and functional," the health ministry said. 

The move comes amid reports of a new Omicron subvariant gaining traction internationally, although no major threat has been flagged domestically so far. Epidemiologists suggest that the current variant's impact is expected to be milder, given India's high vaccination coverage and hybrid immunity profile from past infections. 

The Centre has urged the public to maintain Covid-appropriate behaviour, especially in urban centres and during gatherings, without creating unnecessary panic. 

Delhi on Wednesday logged 23 new cases of Covid-19, as per the latest health department bulletin. The national capital’s active caseload now stands at 84. Notably, no Covid-related deaths were reported, and hospitalisation remained nil, indicating that most infections continue to be mild and manageable at home. 

"Over the recent increase in Covid-19 cases. The situation is under constant monitoring by health authorities and the Delhi Medical Association. The current rise is linked to a sub-variant of Omicron, which is being closely observed. We urge the public to take basic precautions such as wearing masks in crowded places and maintaining hygiene. With responsible behaviour, we can all stay safe," said Dr. Amarjeet Singh Popli, Finance Secretary, Delhi Medical Association.

The surge, though limited, comes amidst rising cases in parts of Asia, including Singapore and Hong Kong. Indian health authorities have conducted review meetings and reiterated the importance of vigilance, especially with global trends pointing to new sub-variants. 

The Delhi government, meanwhile, has ramped up testing and genome sequencing as a precautionary step. Medical experts emphasise that while the number is no cause for alarm, it serves as a timely reminder for urban centres to maintain surveillance and continue public health messaging around vaccination and basic hygiene.