• Source:JND

Bengal Covid Cases: West Bengal recorded 71 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry on Sunday. No deaths were reported during this period, while 53 patients recovered, bringing the total number of active cases in the state down to 693.

Health officials said most of the current cases are showing only mild symptoms. “The situation remains under control,” a state health department official said, adding that monitoring is ongoing and necessary precautions are being taken.

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In response to the recent spike in cases, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held a high-level review meeting with top officials from various departments, including Health, Police, Panchayat, Urban Development, MSME and Kolkata Municipal Corporation. Speaking to the media after the meeting, she asked citizens not to panic but to remain alert and follow basic preventive measures.

“We don’t want to see another pandemic situation. But we must stay prepared. People with existing health conditions should consult doctors and consider treatment in government hospitals, where all facilities are available,” Mamata said. She also mentioned that vaccines are still accessible and have been widely administered across the state.

The chief minister clarified that the surge is currently not serious and appears to be linked to a subvariant of the Omicron strain, which health experts have described as similar to seasonal flu. “There are 4,000 to 5,000 cases across the country. This is more like influenza,” she noted.

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A health expert present at the meeting said the current variant is not a cause for major concern, calling it “a passing wave” with symptoms like cough and cold.

Nationwide, 59 COVID-related deaths have been reported since the beginning of 2025. To ensure readiness, the Centre has directed all states and union territories to strengthen infrastructure, including oxygen supply, ventilators, isolation beds and essential medicines.

Earlier this week, the Union Health Ministry conducted review meetings to assess preparedness. Key health agencies and representatives from all states joined the discussion to evaluate the current situation and future measures.

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