Karachi, India is experiencing an uptick in Covid-19 cases, including 23 deaths linked to the virus in the past two weeks, amidst concerns over the JN.1 sub-variant. Despite this increase, top government officials have announced that there are currently no plans to implement travel restrictions, mask mandates, or compulsory third vaccine doses.

According to Kashmir Media Service, India recorded 358 new Covid-19 infections in the last 24 hours, with the Union Health Ministry identifying Kerala, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra as the major contributors to this surge. The rise is attributed to the spread of the JN.1 sub-variant, first detected in Kerala, which officials describe as a “subtype of a subtype” with a reportedly lower potential for causing severe illness.

The national recovery rate stands at 98.81 percent, with the total number of recoveries reaching 4,44,70,576. In response to the recent increase in cases, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya chaired a meeting to review the Covid-19 situation. He emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared for new and emerging strains of the virus.

Mandaviya called for collaborative efforts between the central government and states, urging the undertaking of mock drills every three months and sharing of best practices. States have been instructed to closely monitor the evolving nature of the virus, its symptoms, and case severity to plan appropriate public health responses.

This development indicates a cautious approach by the Indian government, balancing the need to manage the virus with avoiding stringent public health measures that could impact daily life and economic activities.