India is again experiencing a spate of COVID-19 cases, fueling new public health and readiness concerns. More than 1,010 active cases were reported on May 27, 2025, with the majority of infections springing up in Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Although they are lower than pandemic peak levels in earlier waves, the trend has triggered both awareness and caution in multiple states.
Here in this blog, we deconstruct the present COVID-19 scenario in India, emerging new variants being noticed, symptoms in 2025, expert tips, and how you can remain safe.
COVID-19 On the Rise Again: What is the Present Scenario?
As per the recent figures published by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Kerala and Maharashtra states are topping the lists when it comes to the number of new infections per day. Kerala recorded 430 cumulative cases, with a whopping 335 new cases in a single day the maximum number across all Indian states. Maharashtra follows close behind with 210 cases, 154 of which were newly reported.
Even Delhi, which had reported comparatively fewer instances in recent months, has 99 new cases, bringing the tally to 104. Other states such as Gujarat, Karnataka, and Haryana too are seeing a gradual increase, suggesting that the virus could be making a gradual but perceptible return.
New COVID-19 Variants in Focus: NB.1.8.1 and LF.7
What's most worrying is the appearance of new variants of COVID-19: NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. These are now subject to close monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO). To date, neither variant has raised global health warnings, but because they exist, there is enough to encourage analysts to monitor their behavior in detail.
The NB.1.8.1 variant, a sub-lineage of the JN.1 virus, is suspected to have higher transmissibility. Research suggests it may have stronger binding ability to human cells, potentially making it easier to spread. Already, 58 genome sequences of NB.1.8.1 have been submitted from 22 countries, highlighting its global footprint. Meanwhile, the LF.7 variant has primarily been reported in southern metro cities of India, though international instances especially in the U.S. have also been documented.
COVID-19 Symptoms in 2025
The good news? The current wave appears to be characterized by mild and subtle symptoms. Medical professionals are reporting that most infected individuals exhibit signs that are easy to overlook or confuse with seasonal illnesses. Some of the most common COVID-19 symptoms in 2025 include:
- Sore throat
- Mild fever
- Fatigue and muscle aches
- Nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Mild cough
- Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
Health authorities recommend undergoing a Rapid Antigen Test or RT-PCR if these symptoms persist beyond 3–4 days. Early testing helps in avoiding unnecessary spread, especially in densely populated areas.
Should You Be Panicked? What Experts Have to Say
Even with the increase in numbers, experts and physicians are advising the public not to panic. Most of the cases are not severe and tend to recover at home with minimal medication and rest. Also, WHO has not issued any significant warnings regarding the new variants, indicating the risk to the general population is low at this point.
Though, state advisories have released guidelines to ensure personal hygiene and steer clear of public gatherings. The government is also stepping up contact tracing, especially after Arunachal Pradesh reported one case today, prompting a proactive public health response.
History Repeats? A Quick Recap of India's COVID Timeline
To understand the current situation, it's worth remembering India’s pandemic timeline. The first wave of COVID-19 began in March 2020, with Kerala being the first state to report over 30 cases. Over the next two years, India saw two devastating waves that claimed over 500,000 lives.
Businesses closed, economic life ground to a halt, and everyday life stood still. Although vaccination campaigns and community compliance ultimately got the crisis under control, the pandemic left behind a new world and a fearful society.
Do Vaccines Work against New Variants?
One of the largest questions on everyone's minds currently is: Will existing vaccines shield against NB.1.8.1 and LF.7?
While further studies are being conducted, health officials have established that the current vaccines do offer a good level of protection, particularly in lowering the severity of the disease. The INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium) is also examining the genetic mutations of these variants to establish the effectiveness of vaccines against them.
Meanwhile, physicians suggest booster shots, particularly for older people and those with other health conditions.
COVID Deaths in 2025: What's the Reality?
So far, there have been 7 reported deaths in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Kerala. But according to doctors, these are not being caused by the virus itself, but by pre-existing conditions. That means that even as the virus is spreading, it hasn't yet turned deadlier than earlier strains.
Public Health Guidelines to Follow in 2025
Given the current spike, here are some updated COVID-19 safety tips everyone should follow:
- Practice regular hand hygiene – wash hands frequently with soap or use sanitizer.
- Wear a mask in public spaces, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
- Maintain physical distance wherever possible.
- Get tested if you feel unwell.
- Avoid large gatherings and events.
- Keep up-to-date with vaccination and booster schedules.
The number of COVID-19 cases is rising. It is not a reason to panic but rather to be aware. India's healthcare infrastructure is far from weaker in 2020 and the public is much better educated about COVID-19 than during those early days. It is possible to cautiously ride this wave by taking the necessary precautions.
Be informed and safe and continue to pay attention to your state advisories. If you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19, do not dismiss it, get tested, and get medical advice.
