Delhi recorded one COVID-19-related death in the last 24 hours, marking the second fatality due to the virus in the Capital this year, according to the Union Health Ministry’s COVID-19 dashboard released on Saturday (May 31).

The deceased has been identified as a 60-year-old woman who had been undergoing treatment for acute intestinal obstruction following abdominal surgery. She was later diagnosed with COVID-19.

As of May 30, Delhi reported a total of 294 active COVID-19 cases, with 56 fresh cases recorded on Friday alone, reflecting a slight uptick in infections.

This rise in cases comes amid a broader resurgence of COVID-19 infections across parts of India, attributed largely to the spread of new Omicron-related sub-variants. The sub-lineages LF.7 and NB.1.8, derived from the JN.1 variant—descended from the BA.2.86 or 'Pirola' strain—have been detected in several Asian countries, prompting concerns among health authorities.

JN.1 is part of the Omicron lineage known for its increased transmissibility and ability to evade pre-existing immunity. However, experts have noted that its symptoms remain largely consistent with earlier Omicron strains and have not shown increased severity.

In India, the latest surge in COVID-19 cases has been primarily concentrated in Kerala, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. Health officials have emphasized that the majority of cases remain mild, with low rates of hospitalization and mortality.