Covid cases in India see sharp rise to 5,364

THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK

New Delhi, June 6: India’s active Covid-19 cases have surged past the 5,000 mark, with the Union Health Ministry reporting a total of 5,364 cases on Friday—an increase of nearly 500 cases in a single day. Four fresh fatalities were also recorded in the past 24 hours.

Kerala remains the hardest-hit state, accounting for 1,679 active cases, followed by Gujarat (615), West Bengal (596), and Delhi (592). Kerala reported two new Covid-related deaths, while Karnataka and Punjab each recorded one fatality in the last 24 hours.

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Amid the rising numbers, the Centre has directed all states to ensure robust preparedness, including the availability of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines. Although the majority of cases are mild and being managed under home care, officials stress the need to stay vigilant against potential surges.

To assess readiness at the ground level, the Union Health Ministry is conducting mock drills across states to evaluate hospital preparedness and resource availability.

Since the beginning of this year, India has reported 4,724 cases and 55 confirmed Covid-related deaths. The country had just 257 active cases as recently as May 22, but the recent uptick in infections has prompted concerns.