COVID-19 Update: According to the latest data from the Union Health Ministry, India has seen a significant decrease in daily COVID-19 cases with 7,178 new infections reported in the past 24 hours.

This is a sharp drop from the 10,112 cases recorded the previous day. Additionally, the number of active cases in the country has decreased from 67,806 to 65,683.

According to the 8 am update, the death toll in the country has risen to 5,31,345, with 16 deaths reported.

Meanwhile, the daily positivity rate stands at 9.16%, while the weekly positivity rate has been recorded at 5.41%.

COVID-19 Update: Government Urges Continued Mask Wearing

According to scientists, the recent surge in Covid cases in India can be attributed to the XBB.1.16 Covid-19 variant. However, they also note that people in India have developed a hybrid immunity due to a combination of vaccinations and natural infections.

This means that the current Covid-19 variants are relatively mild in nature and are unlikely to cause significant hospitalizations or severe illness.

Despite this, the government has recommended that individuals continue to wear masks in crowded places and ensure they receive both doses of the vaccine if they have not already done so.

Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever or Chills

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches

• Loss of smell or taste

• Diarrhea

• Sore Throat

• Vomiting

It's important to note that some people with COVID-19 may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may have severe symptoms that require hospitalization.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, it's important to get tested and follow public health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.