COVID-19 Resurgence In 2025: A Wake-Up Call, Not A Panic Button

Just when the world began breathing easier, COVID-19 has returned— although subtly—in India and across parts of Asia. Over the past week, India has recorded a modest spike in COVID-19 cases, largely attributed to new sub-variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. Although most cases are mild, the situation has reignited the need for awareness, precaution, and timely action.

Let’s explore the latest data, variant behavior, regional trends, workplace safety protocols, and what you can do to stay protected.

Table of Contents

• COVID-19 in India: The Current Situation
• The Variants: What We Know So Far
• Hospitalizations and Health Outcomes
• Is a Major Outbreak Likely?
• COVID-19 Workplace Safety: How Employers Can Help?
• Global COVID-19 Snapshot
• Is It Time for Booster Shots Again?
• How to Protect Yourself and Your Family?
• Final Thoughts

COVID-19 in India: The Current Situation

As of May 26, 2025, India has 257 active COVID-19 cases. While this number may seem low compared to previous waves, the emergence of new variants has made public health authorities take notice.

State-Wise Case Distribution (May 19–26, 2025):

• Kerala – 95 cases
• Tamil Nadu – 66 cases
• Maharashtra – 56 cases
• Gujarat – 15 cases
• Karnataka – 13 cases
• Pondicherry  – 10 cases
• West Bengal – 7 cases (6 hospitalized)
• Delhi – No new cases, but under high alert
• Uttarakhand – 2 cases

Despite being low in absolute numbers, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra have seen sharp upticks compared to previous weeks, prompting targeted containment efforts.

The Variants: What We Know So Far

The virus continues to mutate. Currently, JN.1 remains the dominant strain in India, but two newer variants—NB.1.8.1 and LF.7—are now being reported in multiple states. Here's a quick look at each:

• JN.1: Highly transmissible, but mostly mild symptoms.
• NB.1.8.1 & LF.7: Emerging sub-lineages with mutations linked to immune evasion, though there's no confirmed evidence yet of increased severity or hospitalization.

It’s important to note that genomic sequencing and monitoring efforts continue to track these changes to understand their impact better.

Hospitalizations and Health Outcomes

So far, the severity of the infections remains low. Here’s a breakdown of hospitalization trends over the past 15 days:

• West Bengal: Out of 7 new cases, 6 were hospitalized for observation; no deaths reported.
• Karnataka: Three infants tested positive, but none required intensive care.
• Delhi: No new cases, but authorities are actively preparing hospitals with adequate oxygen, medications, and bed availability.

Encouragingly, no significant spike in COVID-related fatalities has been recorded so far.

Is a Major Outbreak Likely?

Health experts suggest that a nationwide or global outbreak is unlikely based on current data. However, localized or regional endemic spread is possible, especially in areas with rising cases or reduced vaccination coverage.

This makes continued surveillance, testing, and reporting critical in managing the situation proactively without triggering public panic.

COVID-19 Workplace Safety: How Employers Can Help?

Workplaces remain high-risk zones due to close contact and shared facilities. Here are five measures organizations can adopt to minimize risks:

1. Hybrid Work or Flexible Scheduling

• Encourage employees to work from home when possible.
• Use staggered shifts to reduce overcrowding in offices and public transportation.

2. Improve Indoor Ventilation

• Maintain HVAC systems and use HEPA filters or air purifiers.
• Open windows or install ventilation fans in enclosed rooms.

3. Mask Usage in Shared Spaces

• Recommend or mandate the use of surgical/N95 masks in elevators, restrooms, meeting rooms, and cafeterias.
• Encourage use of masks in shared company transport.

4. Routine Sanitization

• Disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly (door handles, switches, railings, etc.).
• Provide hand sanitizers at building entry points and on workstations.

5. Encourage Symptom Reporting

• Ask employees to report HR or an authorized authority if they feel unwell or have been exposed.
• Employees returning from Hong Kong or Singapore should self-isolate for 7–10 days due to higher infection rates in these regions.

Read: COVID-19 Guide for Employees

Global COVID-19 Snapshot

Hong Kong

• New Cases: 1,042 (week ending May 10, 2025)
• Daily Hospitalizations: ~250, mostly mild to moderate cases
• Test Positivity: Jumped from 1.7% to 8.21%, the highest in six months
• Dominant Variant: JN.1
• Advisory: Citizens urged to get booster shots and maintain hygiene practices

Singapore

• New Cases: 25,900 (May 5–11, 2025), nearly double from 13,700 the previous week
• Hospitalizations: Rose from 181 to 250 per day
• Main Variants: FLiRT (KP.1 and KP.2), accounting for two-thirds of cases
• Government Advisory: Mask-wearing recommended; peak expected between mid and late June

Both countries are treating the resurgence seriously but calmly, focusing on vaccination, testing, and public education.

Is It Time for Booster Shots Again?

In India, the central health ministry is evaluating whether to roll out another booster campaign, especially in high-risk zones.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family?

No matter the numbers, the best protection is vigilance and prevention. Here's how to protect your loved ones:

• Keep up with local advisories and vaccination schedules.
• Wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas
• Wash hands regularly or use hand sanitizers
• Stay home if you’re feeling unwell and get tested if symptoms persist
• Avoid needless travel to high-risk zones unless necessary.
• Consult a doctor if you have underlying problems or immunocompromised.

Also check: Healthy Fluids For Recovering From Covid-19 Symptoms

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Not Alarmed

COVID-19 is evolving, not ending. The current rise in cases across India and other parts of Asia is a reminder that the virus still exists and requires continued caution—but not fear.

With proper precautions, community awareness, and timely response, we can prevent another major wave and continue to live safely and responsibly.

Let’s be cautious, not complacent.