Surge in pediatric Covid cases in Pune hospitals amid Maharashtra’s rising infections

Maharashtra is witnessing a surge in Covid-19 infections, with Pune hospitals reporting an increase in pediatric cases. On the day reported, the state recorded 43 new Covid-19 cases, including 8 in Pune district and 35 in Mumbai. Doctors at Sassoon General Hospital (SGH) have identified infections in five children, while the pediatric ward currently treats three patients, including two 13-year-olds.

Dr. Aarti Kinikar, head of the pediatric department at BJMC and SGH, confirmed a noticeable rise in pediatric Covid cases over the past week, highlighting the need for vigilance. Despite the increase, most cases remain mild and manageable without hospitalization.

Since January 2025, Maharashtra has reported a total of 300 Covid-19 cases, with a sharp rise in May accounting for 242 cases, or about 80% of the year's total. Mumbai remains the most affected city with 248 cases, over 82% of the state's total.

Health authorities are closely monitoring emerging variants, including NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, which currently show mild symptoms and no serious cause for concern. The Union Health Secretary recently chaired a high-level meeting with ICMR, DGHS, and NCDC officials to review containment and surveillance strategies.

The Health Ministry emphasized that while fresh cases are reported from multiple urban centers, most patients are managed through home isolation, reducing hospital burden. This approach aims to contain the virus spread while ensuring adequate care for severe cases.

"A surge in Covid-19 cases, especially in pediatric patients, has been witnessed over a week," said Dr. Kinikar.

"Most of these are being managed through home isolation and do not require hospitalisation," the Health Ministry stated.

The current situation underscores the importance of continued vigilance, vaccination, and public health measures to mitigate further spread, especially among vulnerable groups like children.

Pune hospitals report a surge in pediatric Covid-19 cases amid Maharashtra's rising infections, with 43 new cases statewide, mostly mild. Doctors note increased child infections, including at Sassoon General Hospital, while health officials monitor variants and emphasize containment and home isolation for most patients.