Concerns have surged nationwide after the report of four COVID-19-related deaths in Kerala on December 17, sparking worries about a potential case surge. In contrast, Telangana currently has only five active COVID-19 cases as of Monday, with no reported deaths. The sole death reported nationally on Monday was from Kerala, contributing to the State's total of 1,634 active COVID cases.

In response, Telangana Health Minister Damodara Raja Narasimha has directed government hospitals to promptly report alarming developments. He urged people to take precautions, especially Ayyappa devotees visiting Sabarimala in light of the new variant. While reassuring the public, he emphasized vigilance during the winter season's cold and cough, directing officials to ensure oxygen kit and mask availability. He also urged caution during the festive season, asserting that hospitals are well-equipped.

Superintendent of Gandhi Hospital, Raja Rao, revealed that the Director of Medical Education has sensitized officials to notify the government of influenza spikes. Despite daily patient visits, there has been no observed increase in COVID cases, according to Dr. Raja Rao.

Senior consultant physician at KIMS Hospital, Shiva Raju, emphasized testing for COVID-like symptoms and called for a revival of protocols, including testing, vaccination, mask-wearing, and avoiding public gatherings, expressing concern about their fading from public discourse.

Among the circulating variants is JN.1, a sub-variant of BA.2.86 Omicron. It was declared a Variant of Interest by the WHO on November 21, with an overall 'Low' risk evaluation. Telangana's latest data, as of December 18, indicates five active COVID cases, with a total vaccination count of 7.76 crore people.

In response to a slight increase in COVID-19 cases, the state government conducted mock drills from December 14 to 16 to assess hospital preparedness. District officials checked beds, oxygen, and medicines, sending reports to the government. Officials clarified it was routine, with no alarm raised.

A new COVID-19 sub-strain, JN.1, was detected in Kerala, prompting vigilance in southern states. Telangana, on high alert after a slight increase in cases, conducted drills despite no organized alert meetings. Dr. Kiran Madala highlighted that JN.1, a sub-variant of Omicron, was declared a Variant of Interest by the WHO in November and currently constitutes 27% of COVID-19 cases.