The Mask Returns as Covid Cases Rise in Kerala: Mild Variants Spur Renewed Caution

After a quiet spell, Covid-19 is once again making waves in Kerala. The state, praised for its proactive healthcare measures, is now seeing a gradual increase in infections, prompting renewed calls for caution and mask usage—especially in crowded areas and among high-risk individuals.

New Sub-Variants Behind the Rise

The current surge is tied to newer Omicron sub-variants—LF.7, NB 1.8, and JN.1—already prevalent in countries like Singapore, China, and Thailand. These variants are known for their rapid spread but typically cause only mild symptoms, according to health authorities.

“Most recover in just two to three days, mainly with fatigue and body aches,” said Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, head of the IMA research cell.

However, “mild” doesn’t mean risk-free. People with existing health conditions or compromised immunity are still susceptible to complications. Health Minister Veena George flagged rising case numbers in districts like Kottayam (57 cases), Ernakulam (34), and Thiruvananthapuram (30). Statewide, May’s case count has exceeded 250.

“Covid doesn’t behave seasonally like the flu—it defies patterns,” added Dr. Jayadevan. “It can strike even when other respiratory viruses are dormant.”

Government Tightens Surveillance and Safety Protocols

In response, Kerala’s health department has ramped up surveillance and hospital readiness. Symptomatic individuals are being tested with RT-PCR, and hospitals are ensuring sufficient stockpiles of masks and protective equipment.

Updated mask advisories include:

• Mandatory mask use in hospitals.
• Symptomatic individuals should wear masks in public.
• Pregnant women, senior citizens, and immunocompromised people are advised to mask up.
• Healthcare workers must wear masks during their shifts.

“Our goal is to curb community transmission and keep our hospitals prepared,” said Minister George.

More Than Just Covid: Fever and Flu Cases Also Surge

Kerala is also contending with a spike in other illnesses—over 850,000 fever cases and nearly 1,000 confirmed cases of influenza have been reported this year. Eleven deaths have been linked to influenza as of May 20. Doctors caution that not all fevers are Covid-related, with viruses like H1N1 also circulating.

“Pandemics transition into endemic phases, but the virus doesn’t vanish,” said Dr. B Ekbal, public health expert. “Even with milder variants, ongoing vigilance is essential.”

Why Prevention Is Still Critical

While current strains are generally mild, the risk of long Covid—persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months—remains. The WHO estimates that about 6 in 100 infected people may suffer from long-term effects like fatigue, joint pain, or insomnia.

Know When to Seek Medical Attention

People should seek immediate medical care if they experience:

• Breathing difficulties
• Ongoing high fever
• Loss of taste or smell
• Severe fatigue or unexplained body pain

A Continuing Challenge

Kerala’s situation mirrors a broader global trend: Covid is evolving, not ending. As immunity wanes and new variants emerge, personal responsibility remains key.

Simple precautions like wearing masks, avoiding crowds, and staying home when unwell are still effective. “Until we develop a universal vaccine against all variants, these basic measures are our strongest line of defense,” said Dr. Ekbal.