Delhi Sees Rise in Covid-19 Cases With 294 Active Infections and One Death

Delhi is witnessing a gradual rise in Covid-19 cases once again. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), the national capital currently has 294 active cases, marking an increase of 56 new cases compared to the previous day.

Additionally, one death has been reported — a 60-year-old woman who was suffering from Acute Intestinal Obstruction Post Laparotomy, and was incidentally found positive for Covid-19.

This increase in numbers has triggered renewed focus on preparedness across hospitals in Delhi, with authorities ensuring that all medical facilities are equipped to handle any potential surge in cases.

Delhi Government Issues Advisory to Hospitals

On May 23, the Delhi Government issued an official advisory instructing both public and private hospitals to take adequate steps in anticipation of rising Covid cases. The advisory includes:

• Ensuring availability of hospital beds

• Maintaining adequate oxygen supply

• Stocking up on essential medicines

• Checking operational readiness of ventilators and BiPAP machines

Hospitals have also been told to review Covid treatment protocols and maintain real-time coordination with state health authorities to avoid delays in response.

No Need for Panic, Says Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

While there is a noticeable spike in case numbers, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has reiterated that there is no need for panic. Speaking to the media, she said:

We have details of the Covid-19 cases. Our hospitals have all the facilities. We have also issued an advisory. We have analysed the scenario and there is no panic situation.

She also assured the public that Delhi's healthcare infrastructure has been fully evaluated and is well-prepared to handle an increase in Covid-related hospitalisations if needed.

New Covid Sub-Variants Being Monitored

The recent rise in Covid-19 infections across several Indian states, including Delhi, is believed to be linked to the emergence of new sub-variants — namely NB.1.8.1 and LF.7.

These genetically distinct variants have evolved from earlier strains and are currently being closely tracked by national and international health bodies. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified them as Variants Under Monitoring, not yet elevating them to the more serious Variants of Concern category.

According to scientists, these new variants do not currently show a high degree of virulence or severity, although they are being monitored for changes in behaviour and potential public health risks.

ICMR Calls for Vigilance, Not Alarm

Amid public concern, Dr Rajiv Behl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has urged people to remain calm.

As of now, the severity is generally low. There’s nothing to worry about. We should be vigilant and we should always be prepared. People do not need to take any immediate action. They should follow normal precautions. There is nothing special to do right now.

Dr Behl emphasised the importance of maintaining basic hygiene and precautionary measures such as mask-wearing in crowded places, frequent handwashing, and avoiding unnecessary gatherings, especially for elderly and immunocompromised individuals.

State and Central Coordination Ongoing

The Union Health Ministry, in coordination with state governments, has continued to track Covid trends across the country. This includes:

• Daily case monitoring

• Genome sequencing of positive samples

• Tracking hospital admissions and availability

• Advising on public health measures and vaccination updates

The government is also reviewing vaccine stocks, especially in light of the decline in booster dose uptake over recent months. There are ongoing talks about updating vaccine formulations to target newer variants.

Preparedness in Healthcare Facilities

Delhi’s health authorities have activated emergency preparedness protocols across its public and private hospitals. This includes:

• Setting up isolation wards

• Increasing oxygen storage capacity

• Ensuring round-the-clock availability of emergency staff

• Regularly testing frontline healthcare workers

Hospitals have been asked to update their Covid response SOPs and ensure the quick identification and triaging of symptomatic patients.

Public Urged to Stay Cautious

While authorities are working proactively, public cooperation remains critical. Doctors and health experts recommend:

• Wearing masks in hospitals, airports, and crowded settings

• Maintaining social distancing where possible

• Getting tested in case of any symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, or fatigue

• Seeking medical attention early, especially for those with comorbidities

Citizens are also advised to stay updated with official government communication and avoid misinformation circulating on social media.

Vaccination Coverage and Immunity Landscape

India has one of the largest Covid-19 vaccination drives in the world. However, booster dose coverage remains low, especially among the youth and rural populations. Health experts say this could be a concern if variants with higher transmission or immune escape begin to spread widely.

The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) continues to monitor new strains, and findings are being shared with global health agencies. This early warning system has helped the government maintain a proactive stance even when the case load is relatively low.

Conclusion

Delhi’s current Covid-19 situation does not indicate a health emergency, but increased vigilance is essential. The rise in active cases, emergence of new variants, and reports of low vaccine stock should not be ignored, even if the symptoms appear mild and hospitalisation rates are low for now.

Authorities are prepared, and Delhi’s hospitals are on alert, but citizens must also do their part — by staying informed, taking precautions, and supporting health workers in managing this ongoing public health challenge. As history has shown, early action and awareness can make a big difference in controlling any potential future wave.

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