As Maharashtra prepares to restart random Covid-19 testing, health experts have urged the public to stay calm. Although case numbers may rise with increased testing, the currently circulating strain is mild, and no Covid-related deaths have been reported in the state so far in 2025.
Rise in Cases Driven by Surveillance, Not Severity
The state’s decision comes in response to a gradual increase in Covid-19 cases in Mumbai and nearby regions. However, medical professionals clarified that this rise is expected due to enhanced testing, not because of a dangerous new variant.
“The virus strain is mild and manageable. There is no mortality reported till now. Precautionary measures and preparedness are important, but there is absolutely no need to panic,” said Dr. Sunil Khaparde, senior public health specialist and former Covid-19 surveillance team leader in Maharashtra.
India’s Natural Immunity Offers Strong Protection
Supporting this view, Dr. Nitin Shinde, senior infectious disease specialist from Nagpur, highlighted the effectiveness of natural immunity in India.
“The natural immunity developed in India is strong enough. The current virus is not causing severe disease at all. People should not worry,” he stated.
Testing Numbers and Recovery Rates Remain Reassuring
As of May 22, Maharashtra conducted 6,477 Covid-19 tests, with 165 testing positive. That day alone saw a spike, with 33 new cases. In Nagpur, over 600 samples were tested from January to May 2025 across both public and private laboratories.
“Covid testing is now part of standard infectious disease panels. There is nothing alarming about it. All Covid-positive patients reported in Nagpur this year fully recovered, and no deaths were reported,” said Dr. Rajesh Deokate, a leading pathologist.
Current Case Distribution Across Maharashtra
On Thursday, various cities reported the following new Covid-19 cases:
- Mumbai: 22
- Pune: 5
- Thane: 3
- Pimpri Chinchwad: 2
- Latur: 1
Nagpur has logged only 8 total cases in 2025, broken down by month as follows:
- January: 1
- February: 0
- March: 1
- April: 2
- May: 4
Precaution Still Essential
As reported by TOI, while the situation remains under control, health authorities have advised citizens to practice basic hygiene, wear masks in crowded places, and test early if they experience symptoms such as cough, fever, or body ache.
With continued vigilance and early detection, Maharashtra aims to maintain public safety while avoiding unnecessary alarm.