Delhi Issues Guidelines to All Hospitals as Govt Closely Monitors Covid Cases

The Health Ministry reported 1,009 new Covid-19 cases nationwide, with Kerala (430) and Maharashtra (209) recording the highest numbers, the Clarion reported. Seven deaths were reported—four in Maharashtra, two in Kerala, and one in Karnataka.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta addressed concerns after the capital crossed 100 cases, confirming 104 infections. She assured the public that the government is closely monitoring the situation and has issued guidelines to all hospitals. “There is no panic situation,” Gupta stated, emphasizing that state hospitals are equipped to handle cases.

Last week, Delhi authorities advised hospitals to ensure availability of beds, oxygen, medicines, vaccines, and functional equipment like ventilators and oxygen concentrators. All positive Covid samples must be sent to Lok Nayak Hospital for genome sequencing.

According to the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7—descendants of the JN.1 variant—are driving the recent rise in cases. Both are classified as Variants Under Monitoring by the WHO, indicating the need for continued surveillance.