COVID-19: Staying Alert In The Face Of New Waves

The sudden surge of COVID-19 cases in Singapore and Hong Kong during the first week of May 2025 has served as a stark reminder that the battle against the coronavirus is not yet over. With increasing hospitalizations and reported deaths, the resurgence has raised serious concerns across Asia. In response, India witnessed a similar spike in infections, especially in states such as Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi, and other parts of the country.

Recognizing the potential threat, the Director General of Health Services immediately convened meetings with state authorities, urging swift preventive measures to safeguard public health and prevent widespread panic.

A Wake-Up Call

The world first learned of a novel virus outbreak on December 29, 2019, in Wuhan, China. What began as isolated cases of viral pneumonia quickly escalated into a global health crisis. The virus, later identified as SARS-CoV-2, led to COVID-19, a respiratory illness capable of causing severe pneumonia, lung infections, and even death.

By January 11, 2020, the virus had been officially reported. Scientists and health organizations worldwide sprang into action, working tirelessly to develop diagnostic kits and personal protective equipment. One of the defining characteristics of this virus was its RNA-based genetic makeup, making it prone to rapid mutations. These mutations have posed ongoing challenges, as each new variant may exhibit different transmission rates, virulence, and resistance to immunity.

India’s Journey

India experienced multiple waves of the pandemic. The first wave began in early 2020, peaking in September before gradually declining. During this period, the government implemented a nationwide lockdown, among other public health measures, to curb the spread.

India launched its COVID-19 vaccination drive on January 16, 2021, starting with healthcare and frontline workers. The second phase of vaccination, which began in March 2021, prioritized senior citizens and individuals with comorbidities. The Government of India adopted a policy of free vaccination for all citizens. Two primary vaccines were deployed, Covaxin, developed indigenously by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India under license from AstraZeneca and Oxford University. As of early 2021, over 10 million vaccine doses had already been administered. In addition to acquiring self-sufficiency in vaccine manufacturing, Bharat was able to help the other countries by supplying them to protect their people from the pandemic. While vaccination was not mandatory, public health campaigns encouraged participation.

Mutations and Variants

Throughout the pandemic, new variants of the virus emerged globally. Notable among them was the B.1.1.7 variant (first identified in the UK), which was more transmissible and detected in several Indian states. The evolving nature of the virus raised concerns about vaccine efficacy and the potential for immune escape. To counter this, India ramped up testing, contact tracing, and quarantine measures. Researchers continued to monitor variants closely to evaluate their impact and adapt strategies accordingly.

Hybrid Immunity

India’s population has developed a degree of hybrid immunity—a combination of immunity gained through both vaccination and natural infection. Over 220 crore (2.2 billion) vaccine doses have been administered, with about 95 crore (950 million) people fully vaccinated. Infections have been confirmed in approximately 4.5 crore (45 million) individuals. The third wave, dominated by the Omicron variant, was marked by mild symptoms and fewer hospitalizations, though many asymptomatic cases likely went unreported. The vaccination programme by the Government of India protected the lives of millions of people.

This hybrid immunity offers a significant level of protection; however, it is not absolute. The recent rise in infections in China, Singapore, and Hong Kong, along with the emergence of new variants, emphasizes the risk posed by immune escape mutations.

What Lies Ahead

The latest wave is attributed to the Omicron JN.1 variant and its descendants LF.7 and NB.1.8.1, which have been designated as "variants under monitoring" by the World Health Organization (WHO). India has seen a rise in active cases, reaching nearly 5,000, along with a few reported deaths. Contributing factors include: Waning immunity over time, Seasonal variations, and mutations that increase infectivity or evade immune responses. Despite these developments, India’s healthcare infrastructure and government preparedness are better equipped than during the early days of the pandemic, but the threat of reoccurrence remains at large.

No Panic, Just Precaution

While the virus continues to evolve, there is no need for panic. Instead, vigilance and responsible behaviour remain key. The public is urged to: Wear face masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, use hand sanitizers regularly, maintain physical distancing, and stay informed through credible sources. Additionally, scientists and health authorities must continue surveillance for new variants, ensuring timely updates to treatment protocols and vaccination strategies.

In Conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic is transitioning into an endemic phase, but its unpredictable nature requires continued attention. Public awareness, scientific research, government response, and individual responsibility together form the pillars of a resilient society in the face of viral threats. Staying alert, not afraid, is the need of the hour.

(Writer is Programme

Manager, Finishing School

organised by FABA)