Covid-19 has become endemic in India, according to scientists from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), with no major outbreaks expected. Current infections are limited to small, localized clusters, and the active caseload has declined to 5,012 as of June 22. Only two deaths were reported in the past 24 hours, bringing the total for the year to 112.
Experts credit high population immunity and the mild nature of circulating Omicron sub-variants NB.18.1 and LF.7 for the decline. Former ICMR scientist Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar said many cases now go undetected but still contribute to community immunity, keeping severe illness low.
Testing has decreased, making tracking harder, but experts see no significant clinical concerns. Public health specialist Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan said the virus now shows cyclical patterns, with immunity dips leading to mild case surges every 6–12 months.
Authorities continue monitoring severe cases and urge precautions like avoiding crowds when unwell. Most infections are now manageable at home, say doctors.