New Delhi, June 13 -- India's active virus case load has risen to 7,131 as of 8 am on Friday, according to the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry.

One death was registered during the period, bringing the cumulative death toll to 78 since the beginning of the year.

The recent uptick in cases is attributed to emerging sub-variants of the Omicron lineage, including JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFC. These variants are characterized by increased transmissibility but tend to cause milder clinical symptoms. Currently classified by the World Health Organization as "Variants Under Monitoring," health experts emphasise that ongoing surveillance and adherence to preventive measures are vital to curbing potential escalation.

Kerala con...