India Sees Fresh Covid Cases: Why It's Time to Review Your Health Coverage

In what brings back scary memories, Covid-19 has seen a resurgence in India. Two new Covid-19 variants — NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — have been detected in India. India has reported several active cases and a resurgence of the disease across more than 20 states and Union Territories. An 84-year-old man has died of the disease in Bengaluru, but officials have urged the public not to panic or to be overtly concerned. This is because Indians have not only received vaccination but have also received immunity from past infections.

"Despite a concurrent increase in cases and hospitalisations in some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation," the WHO has said.

However, till now, there is no evidence that these variants are causing severe disease. The symptoms are similar to the previous COVID variants and are similar to the common cold or mild flu.

So while cases of hospitalisation are few, the government has stepped up measures to keep the disease under control and is keeping a close monitor of those affected. However, in case hospitalisation is required, your comprehensive health cover will cover it just like any other disease.

Having Adequate Health Coverage Is Important

However, you must have adequate coverage. In the peak phase of Covid-19 in 2020, there were instances when several members of a family contracted the disease at the same time. In such cases, families that had a limited family floater coverage faced issues if there were multiple hospitalisations. Let us say a family of four had a cover of Rs 5 lakh, and all of them contracted the disease, and each incurred Rs 2 lakh on hospital bills. In this case, Rs 3 lakh would have to be paid from their pocket.

So, apart from maintaining basic hygiene, which would mean wearing masks in crowded spaces, avoiding large gatherings, and practicing hand hygiene, one must have adequate health insurance for the entire family. Also, one may opt for plans that cover home care, because Covid may not always require hospitalisation.