India is witnessing a rise in Covid-19 cases, driven by new sub-lineages of the virus. Yet, according to one of the country’s leading biologists, these fresh variants aren’t the dangerous foes they once were. While infections climb, severe illness and death rates remain low, thanks largely to widespread immunity.
A Different Wave: What Sets This Surge Apart
If you thought Covid was back with a vengeance, think again. Dr. Vineeta Bal, a renowned biologist and former scientist at the National Institute of Immunology, paints a calmer picture amid the rising numbers. “This wave is unlike the one we saw during the Delta days,” she told IndiaToday.in.
Back in 2021, the virus was basically a stranger to our immune systems. That meant people had zero defenses, and the result was a full-blown health emergency. Hospitals overflowed, fatalities soared, and the nation was on edge. Fast forward to 2025, and the virus has morphed—but it’s not packing the same punch.
“Now, the virus is still changing,” Dr. Bal explains. “But the mutations don’t seem to cause the severe disease we witnessed before. That’s a relief for all of us.” It’s a sign that the virus, while present, is losing some of its bite.
This isn’t to say it’s harmless. Certain vulnerable groups—especially the elderly and those with chronic illnesses—are still at risk. But the general population? The threat level is much lower.
Immunity Built Over Time: Why Severity Has Dropped
How did India get here? The answer lies in the immunity puzzle. Years of vaccinations and previous infections have created a kind of community shield, making it harder for the virus to cause havoc.
Experts say the widespread rollout of vaccines across the country has been key. Nearly 80% of the eligible population has received at least two doses, and many have had boosters. Combine that with the natural immunity from earlier Covid waves, and you have a population much better prepared to fight off the virus.
Dr. Bal adds, “Vaccines might not prevent every infection, but they reduce the chance of severe illness. That’s why we see fewer hospitalizations despite rising case counts.” It’s like a safety net that catches most people before things get dangerous.
Even though new variants keep cropping up—thanks to the virus’s natural evolution—the impact is blunted. The body’s memory cells recognize the virus and mount a faster response. In other words, the virus is running into tougher defenses this time around.
Who’s Most at Risk Right Now?
Not everyone faces the same risk, though. The spike in cases has brought to light who remains vulnerable. Data shows most severe cases and deaths involve the elderly or people with underlying health problems.
Those with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems remain the most susceptible. For them, Covid can still be a serious threat.
The rise in fatalities linked to older patients with past infections is concerning. Sometimes, the virus exacerbates existing health issues, leading to complications.
The health system is keeping a close eye on this group. Treatments and early interventions are focused where they’re most needed, trying to minimize any severe outcomes.
What Experts Say About the Current Situation
While it might feel like deja vu with news of new variants, experts urge calm and caution. The virus is here to stay, but it’s behaving differently. It’s a quieter storm.
Dr. Bal stresses that “panic isn’t helpful. We should focus on protecting those at risk and maintaining vaccination momentum.” She encourages continued mask-wearing in crowded places, hand hygiene, and testing if symptoms appear.
Indian health authorities are also monitoring the situation closely. Surveillance of virus mutations continues to track any changes that might alter the risk landscape.
According to a recent report by the Ministry of Health, although cases have increased by 20% in some states, hospitalizations have not seen a proportional rise. This suggests the new variants are causing milder disease in most.
This data aligns with Dr. Bal’s observations and shows the trend of rising cases but stable severe outcomes.
What This Means for the Future
So what’s next? Are we in for another wave of chaos or a more manageable Covid era?
Most scientists agree that Covid-19 will likely become endemic, meaning it sticks around but with less disruption. The virus will probably keep mutating, but vaccines and natural immunity will keep severe illness down.
Dr. Bal is optimistic but cautious: “We can live with Covid if we stay smart about it. Protect the vulnerable, keep vaccinations up to date, and don’t ignore symptoms.”
She also pointed out the importance of global cooperation in vaccine development and distribution. Variants will continue emerging worldwide, so vigilance beyond borders is crucial.
For now, the message in India is hopeful: Yes, cases are up, but the danger is far less than before. Life doesn’t have to stop. Instead, it’s about learning to live alongside the virus with our defenses stronger than ever.
