Has Covid Quietly Become Endemic in India?

June 22, 2025: India’s battle with Covid-19 has entered a new phase, as top scientists from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) confirm that the virus is now endemic in the country. With active cases steadily declining and no signs of a major new wave, the current pattern reflects small, isolated outbreaks rather than large-scale surges.

According to official data, active cases fell to 5,012 on Sunday, down from 5,976 on Friday. Only two deaths were reported in the past 24 hours, bringing the total Covid fatalities for the year to 112. Scientists attribute this downward trend to high population-level immunity and the relatively mild nature of current variants.

Also Read: Breakthrough Robotic Skin Mimics Human Touch, Developed By UK Researchers

Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar, former ICMR head scientist, explained, “Covid-19 has become endemic in India. While infections continue, they remain mostly mild, and that’s a reassuring sign.” He added that many infections now go undetected due to reduced testing but still contribute to natural immunity.

Current transmission is mainly driven by Omicron sub-variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — both considered less virulent. While testing has decreased significantly, government scientists stress that there’s no evidence of a threatening new variant on the horizon.

Public health expert Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan echoed similar views, calling Covid a “cyclical disease” that returns in waves as immunity wanes. However, he emphasized that previous infections and vaccinations continue to protect the population from severe outcomes.

India’s health ministry also reported 1,197 recoveries in the last 24 hours, bringing the total for 2024 to 19,435. Most cases are being managed at home, and hospitals have reported a sharp decline in patient load.

Precaution remains important, especially for vulnerable individuals, as the virus is still evolving. The government continues to recommend avoiding crowded spaces when unwell and following basic Covid-appropriate behavior.