Kerala reported three COVID-19 fatalities and 300 new cases on Wednesday. Especially in Bengaluru, the state capital, the situation in neighboring Karnataka is growing alarming as cases are expected to surpass 100. Bengaluru authorities have sent 17 samples for genome sequencing in order to confirm the presence of the JN.1 variant, with results expected in five days.

In the last 20 days, Bengaluru has reported 42 positive COVID cases, with three deaths. All individuals, however, had other critical health conditions, according to sources. Authorities are increasingly concerned about the evolving situation, especially with the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.

During the last 24 hours, the Department of Health and Family Welfare reported 20 new positive COVID-19 cases and two deaths. The total active patients stand at 92, with 72 isolated at home, 20 hospitalized, and seven in the ICU. The positivity rate is 2.47%, and the case fatality rate is 10%.

In the past 24 hours, the federal Health Ministry reported 358 new COVID cases nationwide, including 300 in Kerala. Six deaths, including three in Kerala, were recorded during this period. The country has 2,669 active cases, with a spike attributed to the JN.1 variant.

The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya stressed the importance of alertness and preparedness against new strains of the COVID-19 virus. He urged states to increase surveillance and ensure an adequate stock of medical supplies.

World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the evolving nature of the virus and encouraged member states to continue strong surveillance following the surge and new JN.1 variant. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO chief scientist, cautioned against dismissing COVID as a common cold, emphasizing potential long-term effects.

Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National Indian Medical Association's Covid Task Force, expressed concern about the JN.1 variant's marked differences. He recommended wearing masks in specific situations and advised vulnerable populations to use pulse oximeters.

According to Dr. Mandaviya, states must enhance surveillance and maintain adequate medical supplies to prevent the spread of new strains of the virus.