Maharashtra Records Second-Highest COVID-19 Cases as India Logs 257 Active Patients

Mumbai – As COVID-19 cases see a resurgence globally, Maharashtra has reported a significant rise in active infections, escalating from 12 to 56 within a week, making it the state with the second-highest number of active cases in India. The national tally now stands at 257, with Kerala topping the chart with 95 cases and one reported death.

In Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has stepped up preventive and emergency measures amid the increase. Despite the upward trend, officials have assured that the situation remains under control.

Dr. Daksha Shah, a senior BMC official, confirmed that while there is a noticeable rise in cases, most are mild and manageable without hospitalisation. “We are closely monitoring the situation, and our healthcare facilities are well-prepared,” she stated.

Concerns were raised after the recent deaths of a 14-year-old and a 54-year-old at KEM Hospital. However, BMC clarified that both individuals had severe comorbid conditions, and their deaths were not solely due to COVID-19.

To manage potential complications, BMC has increased hospital readiness, including beds and ventilators, with special focus on vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women. The civic body has also bolstered its surveillance systems and public health response strategies.

The Union Health Ministry, meanwhile, maintains that the majority of current cases are mild. A recent meeting chaired by the Director General of Health Services brought together experts from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to evaluate preparedness and ongoing surveillance efforts.

The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and ICMR continue to play a crucial role in monitoring COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses. According to ministry officials, the government remains vigilant and is prepared to scale up hospital infrastructure if required.

With case numbers on the rise in regions like Singapore and Hong Kong, Indian authorities remain proactive in their approach. Citizens are urged to stay informed, adhere to public health guidelines, and seek timely medical assistance in case of symptoms.