Health Desk
6 June
Sandeep Dhand
Nutritionist And Health Educator
India has witnessed a sharp rise in active COVID-19 cases, crossing the 5,300 mark as of June 6, 2025. This marks an increase of nearly 500 cases in just 24 hours, with the total number of active cases reaching 5,364. Although no new deaths were initially reported on June 5, updates show that four deaths have occurred on June 6 in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Punjab. These deaths involved elderly individuals over the age of 65, all of whom had underlying health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
Kerala remains the worst-hit state, reporting the highest number of active cases. The state saw a spike of nearly 200 cases in a day, bringing its total to 1,679. Gujarat follows with over 600 active cases but has not reported any new deaths. Delhi continues to show high numbers, with 592 active cases currently. West Bengal reported a sudden surge of 58 new cases, raising its total to 596. Other states such as Maharashtra and Karnataka have also crossed the 500-case mark, signaling the spread across major regions.
The total death toll has now reached 55, with Maharashtra accounting for the highest number of fatalities to date. Some of the recent deaths include a 65-year-old man with uncontrolled diabetes and a 74-year-old woman and 79-year-old man from Kerala with other serious health conditions who coincidentally tested positive for COVID-19.
A significant concern has been the emergence of a fast-spreading variant known as JN.1, which is linked to other sub-variants such as NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. These variants have shown high transmissibility. A similar strain, HKU5-CoV-2, detected in China, is said to be just a small mutation away from triggering another pandemic-level outbreak.
Despite the rise in cases, recovery numbers are also growing, with the highest number of discharges reported from Kerala, followed by Delhi. However, health experts remain cautious, warning that the situation could worsen if safety measures are ignored.
Citizens, especially unvaccinated adults and those with pre-existing conditions, are being urged to take extra precautions. Mask usage, proper hygiene, and timely testing are once again being emphasized. Although the overall death rate remains low, the rapid increase in active cases has raised concerns about potential future waves.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and encouraging vaccination boosters for vulnerable groups. Public health officials have advised staying alert, especially in high-risk states, as the virus continues to evolve and spread.