India Records 760 New COVID-19 Cases and 2 Deaths

India reported a single-day increase of 760 new COVID-19 cases, along with two additional deaths – one each in Kerala and Karnataka. The Union Health Ministry provided this data, highlighting a total active caseload of 4,423, marking a decrease of 17 cases since the previous day.

The nationwide COVID-19 tally has now reached 4,50,15,896 since the outbreak in January 2020. The death toll has risen to 5,33,373, reflecting an increase of two deaths. In Kerala, a 39-year-old male with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) succumbed to the virus, while in Karnataka, a 65-year-old male with Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis, Portal Vein Thrombosis, diabetes, and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) lost the battle against COVID-19.

As of January 4, the total number of tests conducted was 5,31,342, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Governments at both the central and state levels are closely monitoring the new Omicron Subvariant JN.1, which has been classified as a Variant of Interest (VOI) by the World Health Organization (WHO). The JN.1 subvariant, distinct from its parent lineage BA.2.86, has garnered attention due to its presence in several countries.

The WHO reported 7,344 cases of the JN.1 subvariant from 41 countries as of December 16, while India reported 145 cases until December 28. Despite its classification as a VOI, the WHO emphasized that the overall risk posed by JN.1 remains low based on current evidence.

Authorities continue to monitor and respond to the evolving situation, emphasizing the importance of testing, vaccination, and adherence to safety measures to curb the spread of the virus.