Delhi Faces Covid Scare: 99 New Infections, 104 Active Cases Spark Concern

New Delhi: Delhi reported a worrying surge of 99 new Covid-19 cases over the past week, raising the active case count to 104, as per the health department’s 12:46 PM IST update. This uptick, part of India’s rising tally of 1,009 active cases, has placed Delhi third behind Kerala (430 cases) and Maharashtra (209 cases). The JN.1 Omicron subvariant is suspected to be driving the spread, exacerbated by recent humid weather shifts noted by the IMD. No fatalities have been recorded in Delhi, but the rapid rise has reignited fears of a new wave, prompting urgent action from authorities.

Health System Gears Up

All positive samples are being sent to AIIMS for genome sequencing to confirm the variant’s role. Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj emphasized preparedness, with testing ramped up at facilities like Safdarjung Hospital. The absence of deaths offers some relief, but memories of the 2021 Delta wave have spurred proactive measures. Quarantine protocols are being tightened, and vaccination drives for boosters are gaining momentum, targeting vulnerable groups to curb potential escalation in the capital.

COVID-19 cases surge in Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and other states; health officials on alert. pic.twitter.com/vCPk5SUBe5

— Ahmer Khan (@ahmermkhan) May 26, 2025

Public Anxiety and Preventive Steps

The surge has sparked public unease, with X posts reflecting calls for mandatory masking and stricter crowd control. Markets in areas like Chandni Chowk are seeing increased sanitizer use, while schools are shifting to hybrid learning. The health department’s awareness campaigns urge avoiding crowded indoor spaces, especially with upcoming festivals. Residents are urged to report symptoms via the 104 helpline. Delhi’s robust testing infrastructure, averaging 1,500 tests daily, provides hope, but the 104 active cases signal a critical need for vigilance to prevent a broader outbreak.