Karnataka reports first Covid-19 death of 2025; active cases rise to 47

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Karnataka has reported its first Covid-related death of 2025, following the passing of an 85-year-old man in Bengaluru, as health officials ramp up testing and surveillance amid a mild but noticeable uptick in infections across the state.

According to a PTI report, the deceased, who had multiple comorbidities including heart disease and tuberculosis, had been bedridden for nearly a year. He was admitted to Aster Hospital, Whitefield, with respiratory distress and tested positive for Covid-19. State health officials said the man succumbed on May 17, with an official audit underway to determine whether the virus was the direct cause or a contributing factor.

Karnataka has 47 active Covid-19 cases, with 32 located in Bengaluru and the remaining spread across districts such as Ballari, Dakshina Kannada, Mysuru and Vijayanagar. Most of the infected individuals are experiencing only mild symptoms and are recovering at home. Only one patient is currently hospitalised, as per a Logical Indian report.

Addressing reporters, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao urged the public to remain calm amid recent media coverage of rising Covid-19 cases. “I appeal to everyone not to panic because when you see reports in the media that Covid-19 has returned to haunt, people get alarmed,” he said. Rao also appealed to the media to portray the situation responsibly and avoid exaggerating the severity of the current outbreak, reminding that while Covid-19 had once escalated into a global pandemic, the present circumstances are under control.

He added that normal life can continue without restrictions but urged citizens to remain cautious and adhere to basic hygiene protocols.

Ap per TOI, the Health Minister reiterated that all precautionary steps are being taken and the state is in constant coordination with the Centre. He advised that pregnant women and new mothers should wear masks in crowded areas, but there's no need for widespread restrictions at this time.

In response to the recent rise in cases, the Karnataka government has also issued a comprehensive health advisory, particularly aimed at vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, young children and immunocompromised individuals.

The uptick in cases is being reportedly linked to the circulation of newer Omicron sub-lineages such as JN.1, LF.7 andƒ NB.1.8. While these variants are more transmissible, there is currently no indication of increased severity or hospitalisation rates. Health experts believe Covid-19 is entering a phase where it behaves like other seasonal respiratory illnesses, with periodic spikes driven by waning immunity and evolving variants.

As per Logical Indian, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has asked health authorities to remain alert and act swiftly in line with expert advice. Nationally, the Union Health Ministry and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) are also closely tracking developments. As of May 25, India has recorded 257 active Covid-19 cases.

The government has assured that there are no immediate plans for travel bans, lockdowns, or curfews. Citizens are encouraged to go about their daily routines while observing recommended precautions.