Bengaluru has recorded its first COVID-19-related death in the recent wave, the Karnataka Health Department confirmed on Saturday, May 24. The deceased was identified as an 85-year-old man, marking a somber development in the state's otherwise mild resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

Over the past 24 hours, 108 samples were tested statewide, yielding five new positive cases. One patient has since been discharged, bringing the total number of active COVID-19 cases in Karnataka to 38, with 32 cases concentrated in Bengaluru.

According to the department's update:

• Bengaluru Urban conducted 92 tests, detecting two fresh infections.

• Ballari, Bengaluru Rural, Mangaluru, and Vijayanagar districts reported one active case each.

• Mysuru currently has two active cases.

• A pregnant woman in Belagavi, who had recently travelled to Pune, tested positive.

• Another case involved a woman returning from Mumbai, who is now under home isolation.

ICUs Prepared, Testing Expanded

In light of the uptick, district hospitals — including in Dharwad — have activated 10-bed ICU wards specifically for COVID-19 treatment. The state’s Technical Advisory Committee has recommended that eight medical colleges across Karnataka commence COVID-19 testing from Sunday.

Health Minister: No Cause for Panic

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao addressed the media, stating that the rise in cases was expected and "not alarming."

“There has been a slight increase in COVID-19 cases in Bengaluru and Karnataka over the last 15 days. However, this is part of a natural endemic cycle,” said the Minister.

He urged individuals with severe respiratory symptoms, as well as immunocompromised people, pregnant women, and children, to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas.

“While masks are not mandatory, wearing one in public places is advisable to prevent not just COVID-19 but other infections too,” he added.

COVID-19 is Now Endemic

The Minister emphasized that COVID-19 has become endemic, and most new infections exhibit mild or no symptoms.

“So far, 257 cases have been reported across the country. None have shown severe illness. There is no need to panic,” he said.

He reiterated that life can continue as usual, with no travel restrictions or lockdowns being planned.

“Our advisory is simple: practice hygiene, get tested if symptomatic, and consult a doctor if you fall in a high-risk group.”

State Advisory and Precautionary Measures

The Karnataka Health Department issued an official advisory on Friday, confirming a gradual increase in COVID-19 cases over the past 20 days, particularly in Bengaluru. Testing remains mandatory only for SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infections) cases.

Key Precautions Advised:

• Wear masks in crowded spaces (optional but recommended)

• Wash hands frequently

• Stay home if experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms

• Immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and children should avoid large gatherings