As a community medicine specialist, I have seen firsthand how communities respond to health threats—sometimes with courage, other times with anxiety. In the past few weeks, we’ve begun noticing a subtle but real uptick in COVID-19 cases both globally and here in India. It’s important to address this not with fear, but with clarity and calm.

A Global Picture of a Familiar Virus
Across Southeast Asia—Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and China—public health systems have reported a gradual rise in COVID-19 cases, driven by emerging Omicron subvariants such as JN.1, LF.7, and NB.1.8.1. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global COVID-19 test positivity rate has reached 11% as of mid-May 2025, equalling peak levels last seen in July 2024.

This increase has been especially noted in regions like the Eastern Mediterranean, South-East Asia, and the Western Pacific. But there’s one key difference compared to earlier waves—hospitalisations and deaths have not surged. Most of the credit goes to a combination of vaccine-acquired and natural immunity, which now offers strong protection against severe illness.

WHO continues to recommend a risk-based, integrated approach—surveillance, early diagnosis, vaccination, and protecting vulnerable groups.

India’s Situation: Monitoring Without Panic
Here at home, India has also seen a mild resurgence of COVID-19 infections in recent weeks. In response, the Union Ministry of Health held a high-level meeting with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the Disaster Management Cell. Authorities reassured the public that the situation remains under control, with most cases being mild and manageable at home, and no surge in ICU admissions or oxygen demand, and hospitals continue to function without stress.

The dominant strain currently circulating—JN.1, a subvariant of Omicron—is more transmissible, but not necessarily more dangerous. Other variants like NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 are being closely watched but have not yet shown alarming patterns.

Tamil Nadu: A Well-Prepared Front
In Tamil Nadu, the state’s daily disease surveillance network, spanning over 4,000 health institutions, is fully active. Mild cases have been reported, and hospital admission rates remain low. The system of rapid genomic surveillance, cluster tracking, and state-level health alerts is working efficiently, ensuring no spike goes unnoticed.

While case numbers may be creeping up in Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, we must remember: Increased detection also means our surveillance is effective.

What We Know Scientifically
We now understand much more about COVID-19 than we did even a year ago.

Here’s what the latest science tells us:

· Transmission: The new subvariants are more contagious but not more severe in healthy individuals.

· Symptoms: Most people report flu-like symptoms such as sore throat, body aches, fatigue, low-grade fever, and headache. Some patients also report persistent low-grade fever and gastrointestinal symptoms, which may differ slightly from earlier respiratory-dominant variants.

· Immunity: Prior infection and vaccination still offer significant protection against severe disease. A large proportion of India’s population has hybrid immunity, gained through both vaccination and natural infection.

· Hospitalisations: As per recent data from the Ministry of Health, hospitalisation rates remain below 2% in most states.

Why We Shouldn’t Panic
Panic spreads faster than any virus. Past waves taught us that fear can overwhelm healthcare systems, trigger misinformation, and lead to counterproductive behaviour such as hoarding medicines or unnecessary hospital visits.

It is important to recognize that COVID-19 is transitioning into an endemic phase, much like seasonal influenza. With appropriate public health strategies and individual-level precautions, we can manage it effectively without disrupting daily life.

Your Role in Prevention — Practical Tips That Work
As a doctor working in public health, I often tell my patients and communities: prevention is our best medicine. Here’s how you can stay safe:

1. Get vaccinated and stay up to date with boosters if eligible.
While mass booster campaigns are not currently underway, those with comorbidities or the elderly should consult their health care provider about updated booster doses

2. Mask up in crowded settings.
Even if not mandated, using a well-fitting mask (preferably N95 or KN95) in hospitals, public transport, and during large gatherings is advisable.

3. Practice respiratory hygiene.
Cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing. Use tissues or your elbow—not your hands.

4. Monitor your symptoms.
If you develop symptoms like fever, sore throat, or fatigue, stay home, rest, and isolate yourself to avoid spreading the infection. Consider taking a COVID-19 test, especially if you’re in contact with vulnerable individuals.

5. Avoid unnecessary panic testing.
Testing is important, but over-testing asymptomatic individuals without exposure can create confusion and strain resources.

6. Protect the vulnerable.
If you live with or regularly interact with elderly individuals or those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, or any form of immunocompromised state, it’s important to maintain precautions—even if you feel completely well.

RT-PCR remains the most accurate diagnostic tool, while Rapid Antigen Tests help with faster detection in public spaces.

What the Government Is Doing
Tamil Nadu has reactivated its COVID surveillance system. Hospitals are on alert, and genome sequencing of positive samples is ongoing. Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) and District Surveillance Units are closely tracking clusters. The Union Health Ministry has also advised states to ensure adequate availability of oxygen, ICU beds, and essential medications as part of their precautionary strategies.

Importantly, there are no plans for lockdowns or school closures—reflecting confidence in our ability to manage this phase without major disruption.

Trust Science, Not Rumours
As social media again becomes flooded with “COVID updates,” it’s essential to filter information through credible sources like the World Health Organisation (WHO), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), or your state health department. Avoid forwarding unverified WhatsApp messages or following unscientific home remedies.

Final Word — From One Community Member to Another
We’ve come a long way since 2020. We’re better prepared. But COVID-19 hasn’t disappeared—it’s evolving.

This is not the return of a crisis, but a call to remain responsible. As a community medicine specialist, I urge every reader:
Let’s be vigilant — not alarmed. Informed — not indifferent. Cautious — but never anxious.

Public health is everyone’s responsibility. Let’s meet this challenge together—with science, solidarity, and steady hands.