Kerala urges caution after 182 Covid cases in May; new Omicron strains identified

Thiruvananthapuram: As of May 21, Kerala has recorded 182 COVID-19 cases this month, according to Health Minister Veena George.

The highest number of cases were reported from Kottayam (57), followed by Ernakulam (34) and Thiruvananthapuram (30). The figures were released following a review meeting of the state-level Rapid Response Team (RRT).

Veena George cautioned the public about the potential rise in COVID cases due to the emergence of new Omicron sub-variants — JN.1, LF.7, and NB 1.8 — which are currently spreading across Southeast Asia. Although these variants show increased transmissibility, they have not demonstrated severe symptoms.

She reiterated the importance of self-protection. People exhibiting symptoms such as cough, cold, sore throat, or breathlessness should wear masks. Vulnerable groups — including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses — are advised to wear masks in public and while travelling. Masks remain mandatory in healthcare settings for both patients and healthcare workers.

The minister also instructed hospitals to conduct COVID testing for symptomatic individuals and ensure the availability of RT-PCR kits and other essential safety equipment.

In addition, George warned of heightened risks from vector-borne and waterborne diseases like dengue, leptospirosis (rat fever), and cholera, particularly with the monsoon season approaching. Action plans are being prepared at the local body level to strengthen preventive measures.

The RRT meeting was attended by senior officials including the health secretary, NHM’s state mission director, and director of medical education. The meeting also reviewed ongoing efforts to prevent Nipah virus transmission, with officials confirming that existing containment zones could soon be lifted due to a lack of recent cases.