Covid-19 surge in India: 11,109 new cases reported, active cases cross 49,000

India witnessed a sharp spike in Covid-19 cases on Friday, as 11,109 new infections were reported in the last 24 hours, the highest since September 2022.

The active caseload in the country crossed the 49,000 mark and stood at 49,622, according to the Union Health Ministry data. The death toll also increased to 5,31,064, with 29 fatalities.

Omicron XBB and its variants driving the surge

The Health Ministry officials said that Omicron XBB and its variants are responsible for the current surge in Covid-19 cases, but this is not a cause for worry as the severity of this variant is below average, with less hospitalisation. They added that there would be a further rise in cases for the next 8-10 days, after which a decline is expected.

Vaccination and precautionary measures

The Health Ministry also said there is no shortage of Covid-19 vaccines for those who want to avail of them. It urged people to get vaccinated and take a booster dose if eligible. It also advised people to follow Covid-appropriate behavior such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing and avoiding crowded places.

State-wise situation

Among the states, Maharashtra reported the highest number of new cases at 3,456, followed by Kerala with 2,189 and Tamil Nadu with 1,021. Delhi also saw a surge in cases, with 1,008 new infections. The states with zero new cases were Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh and Sikkim.