There are now 213 cases of the new Omicron variant of COVID-19 in India, and the maximum cases among these are in the national capital Delhi, where 57 Omicron infected patients have been recorded thus far. 17 patients have recovered as of yet from the Omicron variant. The Delhi government has restricted Christmas and New Year celebrations in light of the variant’s spread.

Maharashtra follows in second spot of states with maximum Omicron variant patients. The Union Health Ministry said that there are 54 cases of Omicron in the state whereas the National Institute of Virology says that 11 new cases were confirmed on Tuesday which takes the total to 65.

Andhra Pradesh has also confirmed its second case of the Omicron variant, while Odisha CM Navin Patnaik has asked people to remain cautious over its spread, having recorded the state’s first two cases yesterday. Haryana’s Health Minister Anil Kumar Vij has said that his state has not confirmed any cases of Omicron as of yet.

Meanwhile, election rallies continue in Uttar Pradesh, which pose a big risk to the health and safety of politicians and audiences. Akhilesh Yadav’s wife and two-time Kannauj MP Dimple Yadav and their daughter have also tested positive for coronavirus even after being double-vaccinated. At present, she says that she is asymptomatic.

In light of the increasing COVID-19 cases in India, Thailand has changed its entry rules for Indian travellers, although they won’t be applicable for Phuket. In order to avoid a fresh wave caused by the Omicron variant, Israel is considering a policy on booster vaccine doses to beat back the pandemic. 

Dr. V.K. Paul, member of India’s NITI Aayog, said citing Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya’s statement in Parliament that a policy on booster shots regarding its need, time of administration, and other relvant decisions about tis effects will be taken on a scientific basis.