Delhi Reports 483 Active Cases; Genome Sequencing Underway to Track New Variants
New Delhi: In response to a fresh spike in COVID-19 cases in the capital, Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital has taken preventive measures by reserving nine beds exclusively for COVID-19 patients, as Delhi’s active case count climbs to 483, up by 47 cases since June 1.
Dr. Pawan Kumar from the hospital’s Respiratory Medicine Department confirmed that four patients with comorbidities tested positive for COVID-19 last month and were immediately isolated. He added that the hospital is fully prepared to scale up bed capacity if clinical cases continue to rise.
The move comes amid a nationwide increase in COVID-19 cases, with 257 active cases reported across India, according to the Union Health Ministry. Globally, similar trends are being observed in regions like Hong Kong and Singapore, raising concerns about new variant-driven transmission.
Precautions and Preparedness
Dr. Kumar emphasized that the hospital is well-equipped, including an oxygen regeneration plant, and there is no immediate cause for alarm. “Viruses mutate continuously, but existing vaccines are still effective in preventing severe disease,” he said.
He advised people experiencing symptoms such as headache, cough, cold, or fever to consult a doctor. Standard precautions—wearing masks and practicing hand hygiene—remain essential to control the spread.
Enhanced Testing and Genome Sequencing
To contain the spread, testing has been intensified at RML Hospital. All symptomatic individuals are now being screened, and positive samples are being sent for genome sequencing to identify and monitor emerging variants.
Legal and Policy Response
The Delhi High Court has taken note of the rising infections and has sought a status report from the Centre on current guidelines for laboratories, specifically regarding the collection and transport of COVID-19 samples.
Public Concern Deepens
The recent death of a 22-year-old woman with post-tuberculosis lung disease, who succumbed to COVID-19 complications, has further highlighted the risks to vulnerable populations.
Meanwhile, several states, including Kerala, have also started stepping up their protocols in private hospitals and public health facilities amid growing case numbers.
As Delhi experiences this renewed wave, health experts are urging the public to remain vigilant, follow COVID-appropriate behaviour, and avoid complacency.
