Covid-19 Surge in India 2025: Rising Cases in Kerala and Maharashtra Linked to New Variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7

India is witnessing a fresh uptick in COVID-19 cases, with significant surges reported in Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Health officials have flagged two new sub-variants—NB.1.8.1 and LF.7—as possible drivers behind the latest wave of infections.

🔬 New COVID-19 Variants Detected in India

The emergence of NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 has caught the attention of global health agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO). While both sub-variants are reportedly more transmissible, there is currently no indication of increased severity or mortality. WHO has categorized them under active surveillance but has not issued a high-alert advisory yet.

📈 State-Wise Covid-19 Case Surge (as of May 27, 2025)

• Kerala leads with 430 active cases, reporting 335 new infections—the highest single-day rise nationwide.
• Maharashtra follows with 210 confirmed cases, including 154 new cases.
• Delhi has recorded 99 fresh cases, bringing its total to 104.
• Gujarat, Karnataka, Haryana, and Tamil Nadu are also seeing a moderate rise in daily infections.
• Arunachal Pradesh has confirmed its first case, prompting immediate contact tracing and localized containment efforts.

😷 Should You Be Concerned?

Despite the rise, health authorities and epidemiologists are urging the public to remain calm. Most new infections present with mild and manageable symptoms. States have issued fresh advisories urging citizens to:

• Avoid crowded indoor spaces
• Maintain hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
• Get tested if symptoms persist beyond three days
• Continue using masks in high-risk areas

⚠️ Latest Covid-19 Symptoms in 2025

According to updated data, the most commonly reported symptoms in the current wave include:

• Sore throat
• Low-grade fever
• Mild cough
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nasal congestion
• Nausea and digestive discomfort

In rare cases, gastrointestinal issues and persistent low-grade hyperthermia have been observed.

Doctors recommend taking a home antigen test or an RT-PCR test if symptoms last more than 3–4 days. Immediate medical attention is advised for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

🏥 Mortality Update

So far, 7 deaths have been reported across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Kerala. Experts stress that most of these fatalities involved elderly patients or those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or compromised immunity.

🧪 Preventive Measures & What You Can Do

While vaccination remains the cornerstone of protection, health experts recommend:

• Keeping your COVID-19 booster shots up to date
• Practicing mask-wearing in closed public spaces
• Maintaining physical distancing
• Monitoring symptoms and testing early

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has assured the public that surveillance systems are in place, and genomic sequencing efforts are being expanded to track and contain the spread of these new sub-variants.

✅ Conclusion

The Covid-19 surge in India in 2025 is a reminder that while the virus may have evolved, vigilance remains critical. With mild symptoms and manageable caseloads so far, the emphasis is on early detection, testing, and preventive action—not panic.