India Reports 6 Covid Deaths in 24 Hours as Active Cases Cross 7,000; Kerala Sees Sharp Spike

India recorded 306 fresh Covid-19 cases and six deaths in the past 24 hours, taking the country’s active caseload to 7,121, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry on Wednesday. The deaths include three fatalities in Kerala, two in Karnataka, and one in Maharashtra, as the virus continues its gradual resurgence across several states.

Kerala emerged as the hotspot, recording the highest single-day spike with 170 new infections. The state’s active cases now stand at 2,223, marking a worrying upward trend. Among the deceased in Kerala were an 87-year-old woman and two men aged 69 and 78, all with underlying health conditions. Officials reported that the individuals had comorbidities that exacerbated the impact of the virus, making recovery more difficult.

Additionally, a 51-year-old woman with hypertension and Type 2 diabetes, and a 79-year-old man with hypertension also died of Covid in the state, further underlining the threat the virus still poses to vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.

Following Kerala, Gujarat reported the second-highest number of new infections with 114 cases, pushing its total active caseload to 1,223. Karnataka reported 100 fresh infections, raising its active cases to 459. Meanwhile, Delhi added 66 new cases, bringing its total active tally to 757, according to the Health Ministry.

Maharashtra, which once bore the brunt of India’s Covid crisis, recorded one death in the past 24 hours. Officials stated that the deceased, a 43-year-old male, was suffering from breathlessness, abdominal pain, tachycardia, cyanosis, and general distress. His death adds to a growing list of Covid-linked fatalities across the country in recent days.

Jharkhand, which has been reporting a relatively low number of cases, recorded its first Covid death of the year on Tuesday. A 44-year-old man undergoing treatment at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi succumbed to the virus. Ranchi’s civil surgeon Dr Prabhat Kumar confirmed the death, stating the patient was already battling multiple health issues when he tested positive for Covid-19. The state currently has six active cases, and nine patients have recovered since the beginning of the year, according to an official bulletin.

Amid the steady rise in cases and fatalities, the Centre has ramped up efforts to prepare for a potential wider spread. Nationwide mock drills have been launched to assess hospital readiness, with a focus on ensuring availability of oxygen cylinders, isolation wards, ICU beds, ventilators, and essential medications.

Officials emphasized that most current cases remain mild and manageable at home. However, the increase in severe cases and fatalities, especially among individuals with comorbidities, has prompted a cautious approach.

Technical review meetings were held on June 2 and 3, chaired by Dr Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, to evaluate the country’s preparedness. States and union territories have been directed to remain vigilant, ensure strict adherence to Covid protocols, and scale up testing and vaccination efforts where needed.

As the virus continues to resurface in multiple regions, health authorities have urged citizens—especially the elderly and immunocompromised—to take necessary precautions and avoid crowded places.

IT.