New Covid variant ‘Arcturus’ behind surge in cases in India

The new Arcturus version is to blame for the increase in Covid cases in India. Arcturus, also known as XBB 1.16, is a subtype of Omicron that has raised worries about a new wave of Covid infections.

According to data from the Union Health Ministry, India recorded a single-day increase of 7,830 coronavirus cases on April 12, the most in 223 days. However, health experts are urging people not to panic, pointing out that there are now over 10 lakh hospital beds available across the country.

Officials sources said even though the cases are increasing, hospitalisation is low and expected to remain low. Covid in India is moving towards the endemic stage, so the cases may keep rising for the next 10-12 days after which they will subside, sources said on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, mock drills were conducted this week by the health ministry to check for Covid preparedness, while masks have been made mandatory in certain places for the first time in over a year.