While in healthy individuals, the symptoms are usually mild, since the cases are rising rapidly, authorities are monitoring the situation
COVID-19 cases are once again on the rise in parts of Southeast Asia, including India. While the majority of recent infections in India appear to be mild, doctors are urging the public to remain careful. If you have recently come down with flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue or body aches, it is natural to wonder whether it could be COVID.
Interestingly, this time around, two unusual symptoms are getting noticed that were not commonly associated with earlier COVID waves — diarrhea and conjunctivitis (red or pink eye).
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, pink eye has been reported as a rare symptom of COVID-19. Similarly, a study published by Mayo Clinic had noted that some COVID-positive people experienced gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and loose stools. However, these were never considered classic indicators of the virus until now.
Now, with several new cases reporting these very symptoms, they are being seen as potential warning signs of infection, especially if they appear alongside other respiratory symptoms. Doctors say the virus may be taking a slightly different course this time, and while the symptoms remain manageable, it’s worth paying attention to what your body is telling you.
As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India had 257 active COVID cases as of the last update on June 19, 2025. Health authorities have clarified that most infections are mild and being managed with routine symptomatic treatment. Importantly, no serious complications have been reported so far. The two recent COVID-related deaths in a Mumbai hospital involved patients who were already battling chronic illnesses.
Medical experts continue to advise the public not to panic. Staying informed, monitoring your health, and following basic hygiene practices like hand washing and masking in crowded spaces can go a long way in keeping yourself and others safe.
How to protect yourself from COVID
The best way to stay away from getting a COVID infection is to go back to the basics. Wear masks in crowded places, avoid travelling to areas that are reporting spike in case, practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with sick people. If you yourself report some symptoms, it is best to isolate and get tested after consulting your doctor.
