COVID-19 Cases Rise in India: As COVID-19 cases begin to inch upward again across India, health experts are urging caution—especially among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.With active infections crossing the 1,000-mark nationally and Kerala leading the surge with over 430 active cases, many are revisiting a familiar concern: Do I need another vaccine dose?
The answer, according to top virologists and clinicians, is yes—but with a focus on those most vulnerable.
Mild Cases, But Don’t Let Your Guard Down
The current wave appears to be driven by Omicron subvariant JN.1 and its offshoots. Fortunately, widespread immunity from previous infections and vaccinations has kept the majority of cases mild. Unlike earlier strains such as Delta or Beta, which severely affected the lungs, Omicron and its descendants typically remain confined to the upper respiratory tract, causing flu-like symptoms without organ damage.
However, experts warn that this should not lead to complacency.
“Even a mild infection can prove dangerous for the elderly or those with chronic illnesses,” said Prof Jacob John, a renowned virologist and public health expert.
Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National IMA COVID Task Force in Kerala, explains that while most people enjoy robust immunity, this protection fades over time—often within six months. “For most, another vaccine dose won’t offer long-term defense, but it can be lifesaving for high-risk groups,” he noted.
Who Should Consider a Booster Dose?
Doctors emphasize that not everyone needs another vaccine shot. However, individuals in the following categories are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider:
- Adults over the age of 60
- Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., cancer patients, organ transplant recipients, people on immunosuppressive therapy)
- Patients with chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, COPD, or kidney disease
- Healthcare professionals caring for vulnerable patients
For these individuals, the risk of severe illness—even from a “mild” infection—remains significant.
“Annual COVID vaccination is currently advised for high-risk groups, especially those over 65,” said Dr Narayana Subramaniam, Senior Consultant at Sparsh Hospitals in Bengaluru.
Vaccines Currently Available in India
India offers two booster options for those eligible:
- iNCOVACC – Bharat Biotech’s intranasal vaccine
- GEMCOVAC-OM – Gennova Biopharmaceuticals’ Omicron-specific mRNA booster
While there is no central government mandate for additional booster doses, clinicians managing vulnerable patients are encouraged to make informed recommendations.
International Perspectives: Booster Strategies Vary
India’s booster policy remains conservative compared to countries like the United States, where boosters are advised annually for nearly everyone above six months of age. In contrast, many European countries limit additional shots to the elderly and those with serious health conditions.
A recent study in The New England Journal of Medicine co-authored by Indian-origin physician Dr Vinay Prasad argues for a more evidence-based, risk-stratified vaccine strategy. The paper supports targeted boosters rather than a one-size-fits-all model, especially for low-risk groups.
COVID-19: Still an Airborne Threat
Experts reiterate that COVID-19 remains an airborne disease and preventive behaviors are still effective. Dr Jayadevan likened its spread to “cigarette smoke in a closed room,” reinforcing the need for good ventilation and responsible behavior.
Precautionary Measures Recommended:
- Stay home if experiencing fever or respiratory symptoms
- Avoid non-essential visits to hospitals
- Wear masks in crowded or high-risk settings
Kerala on High Alert, Surveillance Tightened
As the state with the highest number of active cases, Kerala has strengthened its disease surveillance and epidemic prevention efforts. However, officials in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have advised citizens not to panic following isolated reports of severe illness and one COVID-related death in Bengaluru.
The Bigger Picture: Virus Evolution and Immune Gaps
Prof Jacob John emphasized that SARS-CoV-2 will continue to evolve. Each dominant variant, from Alpha to Delta to Omicron, has succeeded by evading existing immunity.
He also highlighted a blind spot in the health discourse: Influenza. “Flu is still deadly among the elderly, but receives far less attention than COVID,” he said.
There’s also concern for a new group: young children born after 2022, many of whom may have little or no exposure to the virus and could become vulnerable in future waves.
While India’s COVID situation is stable for now, a gradual rise in cases—and the emergence of new sub-variants—requires a balanced, risk-based approach. For most, no urgent action is required. But for those in high-risk categories, now might be the right time to speak with a doctor and consider another dose.
Staying alert, informed, and considerate of others’ health remains the best way to face whatever the virus does next.
