11 June, 2025:
As Kerala reported its highest single-day COVID-19 spike with 170 new infections and three deaths, Health Minister Veena George has urged heightened caution, especially for senior citizens and individuals with comorbidities, noting that the disease continues to pose serious risks to vulnerable groups.
The minister identified Omicron sub-variants JN.1, LF.7, and XFG as the most prevalent strains in the state. While these variants are "not as severe," George warned they carry a high transmission potential, which could strain the healthcare system if cases continue to rise.
With 2,223 active cases, Kerala now tops the national tally, prompting the health department to intensify surveillance and reinforce COVID protocols in high-risk zones.
"Masks should be worn in public places and during travel. Genomic sequencing is being conducted to identify the COVID-19 variant. The Omicron JN.1 variant LF.7 and XFG, which are spreading in Southeast Asian countries, are the most common in Kerala. Although these variants are not as severe, they have a high potential for spreading the disease," the minister said.
The Health Minister further said that "Unnecessary visits to hospitals should be avoided. Those with symptoms such as a cold, sore throat, cough and shortness of breath should wear masks. Masks are mandatory in hospitals. Hands should be cleaned with soap or sanitiser from time to time."
The State Level Rapid Response Team (RRT) has directed that patients should not be referred to private hospitals unnecessarily due to COVID-19 and advised people to avoid non-essential hospital visits. Individuals with symptoms such as a cold, sore throat, cough, or shortness of breath should wear masks. Masks have been made mandatory in hospitals. The public has also been advised to regularly wash hands with soap or use hand sanitiser.
