The Delhi government issued a fresh advisory on Friday after the city recorded 23 new Covid-19 cases, urging hospitals to ensure readiness in terms of beds, oxygen supply, medicines, and vaccines.
Health Minister Pankaj Singh confirmed the new infections and said, “The government is verifying whether the cases involve residents or travelers.”
The move comes as Covid-19 cases rise in several countries including China, Thailand, and Singapore, sparking global concern. In response, Delhi’s health department has instructed all health institutions to send positive samples for genome sequencing to Lok Nayak Hospital.“The hospitals must ensure preparedness in terms of availability of beds, oxygen, antibiotics, other drugs and vaccines. All equipment such as ventilators, Bi-PAP, oxygen concentrators and PSA must be in functional condition,” — Delhi Health Advisory
Genome Sequencing, Data Reporting Mandated
The advisory also mandated daily reporting of parameters such as case count, equipment status, and drug availability via the Delhi State Health Data Management Portal.
Mild Cases Across India, Says Centre
The Union Health Ministry noted that Covid infections remain mild across India. A total of 257 cases were recorded on Wednesday. State-wise reports include Maharashtra (56) and Tamil Nadu (66), with smaller numbers in Delhi, Puducherry, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Haryana, Karnataka, and West Bengal.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George disclosed that the state logged 273 cases in May, with Kottayam topping the list at 82, followed by Thiruvananthapuram (73), Ernakulam (49), Pathanamthitta (30), and Thrissur (26).
Haryana Urges Calm
Haryana reported four new cases on Friday, which officials said were mild. The individuals remain under home observation. Health Minister Arti Singh Rao said there was “no need for panic” and that the government is “closely monitoring the situation.”
Centre Says Situation ‘Under Control’
During a May 19 review meeting chaired by the Director General of Health Services, experts from NCDC, ICMR, and other agencies concluded that the situation is currently stable.
“As of May 19, 2025, the number of active Covid-19 cases in India stands at 257, a very low figure considering the country’s large population. Almost all of these cases are mild, with no hospitalisation required,”— Official quoted by PTI
With global trends pointing toward a resurgence, Indian authorities appear cautious but confident that proactive measures will keep the situation under control.
