India has recorded a total of 1009 active COVID-19 cases as of 8 am on Monday, May 26, according to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The resurgence, while relatively mild compared to past waves, has prompted health authorities to remain alert but not alarmed. Kerala currently reports the highest number of active cases at 430, followed by Maharashtra with 209, and Delhi with 104. States like Gujarat (83), Tamil Nadu (69), and Karnataka (47) also reflect a moderate presence of active infections. Other states such as Uttar Pradesh (15), Rajasthan (13), and West Bengal (12) are seeing marginal case loads, while several states and union territories have reported zero active cases, indicating a reduced viral spread in many parts of the country. Since May 19, the country has reported seven COVID-related deaths—four in Maharashtra, two in Kerala, and one in Karnataka.

Health experts across India have reiterated that there is no cause for public panic despite the uptick in cases. Dr. Janak Puri, President of the Indian Medical Association, emphasized the importance of basic hygiene and mask-wearing in crowded spaces rather than panic-driven behavior. Dr. Amarjeet Singh Popli from the Delhi Medical Association echoed these sentiments, noting that health bodies are actively monitoring the situation and encouraging continued awareness and preventive action. According to experts, the current increase in cases is largely attributed to new descendants of the Omicron variant, specifically the JN.1 sublineage and its derivatives like NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, which are being studied closely by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).

Officials and virologists agree that while the rise in infections should not be ignored, it also doesn’t warrant any form of panic or drastic public response at this stage. The overall trajectory of COVID-19 remains under control, thanks to sustained immunity levels in the population and increased genomic surveillance. The Ministry continues to promote timely testing, vaccination for eligible individuals, and responsible public behavior, especially in urban centers with higher population densities. With the majority of states showing low or zero active cases, the health community remains hopeful that India can maintain control over the current spread without facing a major wave.