India Registers 25% Decline In COVID-19 Cases Even As JN.1 Infections Cross the 1,000 Mark | Weather.com – The Weather Channel

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Monday, January 15: After five consecutive weeks of rising COVID-19 cases and anxieties, India finally witnessed a 25% dip in the viral infection during the week ending on January 13. And this encouraging trend was accompanied by a decline in deaths, with 22 reported compared to 31 the previous week.

As of Sunday, India logged 375 new cases of COVID-19, while the number of active infections has dropped to 3,075, the Health Ministry said. Although a new variant and colder weather conditions initially drove the surge, the situation now seems to be stabilising. The good news is widespread too, with most major states registering a drop in reported infections.

Kerala led the pack with a nearly 60% reduction, from 1,109 cases last week to 452 this week. Even Karnataka and Maharashtra, which were previously witnessing a surge, saw a gratifying decline. Karnataka, still with the highest case count at 1,583, had dropped from 1,856 previously, while Maharashtra reported a dip from 915 to 709.

Bengal remains a concern as it continues to see a rise in infections. But experts are closely monitoring the situation and urging strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent further spread.

While the recent developments offer a glimmer of hope amidst concerns about the new JN.1 sub-variant, a new INSACOG report indicates that we cannot let our guards down just yet.

According to INSACOG data, the JN.1 sub-variant has crossed the 1,000 mark nationwide. Karnataka has been revealed to be the leading hotspot with 214 cases, followed by Andhra Pradesh (189) and Maharashtra (170). Even as concerns remain about JN.1, official sources assure there's no evidence of it triggering an exponential increase in cases or a surge in hospitalisations and deaths.

Given the decrease in active COVID-19 cases, we do have reason for some cautious optimism. However, the JN.1 variant requires close monitoring, and continued vaccination efforts remain essential to bolster population immunity. Continued vigilance, coupled with responsible social distancing and adherence to safety protocols, can help solidify this downward trend and prevent future surges.

(With inputs from TOI)

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India Registers 25% Decline In COVID-19 Cases Even As JN.1 Infections Cross the 1,000 Mark | Weather.com - The Weather Channel