State government issues fresh guidelines as Covid-19 tally in Karnataka hits 35
Pregnant women, children, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with pre-existing health conditions have been advised to wear face masks in crowded areas in Karnataka

The Karnataka Department of Health and Family Welfare on Friday issued a fresh advisory following a gradual rise in Covid-19 cases, particularly in Bengaluru. Till now, in 2025, 35 cases have been reported in the state, with 32 cases in the state capital alone. No fatalities have been reported so far.
The advisory states that vulnerable groups – including pregnant women, children, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with pre-existing health conditions – wear face masks in crowded areas. “All citizens are encouraged to maintain hand hygiene and use hand sanitizers regularly,” the state health department advisory states.
Health authorities have also advised individuals experiencing symptoms of Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) to seek Covid-19 testing promptly. “Early detection is essential for timely treatment and to prevent further transmission of the virus. While the current case numbers are low, community cooperation is vital in curbing any potential resurgence of the virus,” the government has stated.
Amid a substantial rise in Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong, Singapore and other Asian countries over the past week, India has also reported a spike in Covid-19 cases. The majority of the 257 cases detected in the country are from Kerala (95 cases), Tamil Nadu (66 cases), and Maharashtra (56 cases). Between May 12 and May 19, 164 new cases were recorded, with Kerala reporting the highest at 69, followed by Maharashtra (44) and Tamil Nadu (34).
The JN.1 variant, a descendant of Omicron, along with its sub variants of LF.7 and NB.1.8, is driving the current surge, which remains mild with no significant hospitalisations or deaths reported.
Health authorities, including the Union Health Ministry, have emphasised that the situation is under control, with robust surveillance through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).