Gujarat Reports 7 Active COVID-19 Cases, Sixth-Highest In India Amid Southeast Asia Surge
Ahmedabad: While Southeast Asia experiences a renewed spike in COVID-19 infections, particularly in Singapore and Hong Kong, Gujarat finds itself among the Indian states with the highest number of active cases, ranking sixth with seven current infections.
A review conducted on Monday by the Union Ministry of Health confirmed that India’s overall COVID-19 situation remains stable and “under control,” with only 257 active cases nationwide as of May 19. However, health officials in Gujarat are maintaining a state of heightened alert, mindful of global trends and the unpredictable nature of the virus.
Leading the country’s active case tally is Kerala with 95 cases, followed by Tamil Nadu (66), Maharashtra (56), Karnataka (13), and Puducherry (10). Gujarat’s position as the sixth-highest underscores the need for continued vigilance, even as the numbers remain low.
In the past week, one patient in Gujarat has recovered, signaling some relief. Since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, the state has reported over 12 lakh COVID-19 cases and 11,101 deaths, placing significant historical weight on its pandemic response systems.
The current uptick in Asia has been linked to the JN.1 variant, a sub-lineage of the Omicron BA.2.86 strain. According to the World Health Organization, this variant contains approximately 30 mutations, with LF.7 and NB.1.8 being the most common forms found in recent cases. Fortunately, these infections have largely been mild, with little to no need for hospitalization.
Despite the low severity, Gujarat’s health authorities have urged residents to remain cautious. “The numbers may be low, but complacency is not an option,” said a senior official from the state health department. “We are continuing with genome surveillance, hospital preparedness, and public awareness campaigns.”
As monsoon approaches and respiratory infections typically rise, officials are emphasizing mask usage in crowded places and urging vulnerable groups, including the elderly and immunocompromised, to take extra precautions. For now, Gujarat remains watchful, but calm, amid a cautiously monitored national and international COVID-19 landscape.