Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], June 7: Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel stated on Saturday that the state is fully equipped to handle any COVID-19-related situation, with all necessary arrangements such as beds, ventilators, and ICU facilities in place. He emphasized that while the current Omicron variant is part of the COVID family, it does not appear to pose a serious threat.
Speaking to the media, Minister Patel reassured the public, saying, “This Omicron virus is a variant of the COVID family, but it is not severe. Its variants do not seem to be causing significant harm or death. Nonetheless, we have made full preparations, including ICU beds and ventilators, to manage any potential scenario.”
Despite the mild nature of the current cases, the Health Minister urged vulnerable populations—particularly pregnant women and individuals with comorbidities—to remain cautious. He also advised those experiencing symptoms such as cold, fever, or cough to seek medical attention promptly.
“The rise in cases might feel like a wave, but it’s not serious,” he added. “These fluctuations happen several times a year. Still, people in high-risk groups should be careful.”
As of 8 AM on June 7, 2025, India reported 5,755 active COVID-19 cases. Gujarat accounted for 717 of those cases, including 102 new infections reported in the past 24 hours and two deaths since January 1.
Nationally, 59 COVID-19-related deaths have been recorded in 2025. In response to the recent increase in infections, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed all states to ensure adequate supplies of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines.
A series of technical review meetings took place on June 2 and 3 under the leadership of Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services (DGHS). These discussions included officials from the Disaster Management Cell, Emergency Management Response (EMR) Cell, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), and various central and state health institutions to assess the current COVID-19 landscape and ensure preparedness.