NEW DELHI: Dr. R Gangakhedkar, former chief scientist, ICMR, said there was no need to worry about the recent increase in Covid cases in several parts of the country, including Delhi. He added that the increase in new Covid cases would not lead to a fourth wave.

"There are some subvariants of the Omicron variant in India. However, a fourth wave is unlikely as no new variants have been reported in India so far. The BA.2 variant affects people across the world. The increase in the number of patients is due to the fact that after the withdrawal of lockdowns, schools, colleges and government offices were opened and restrictions were lifted. Some of us have misunderstood mandatory use of a mask which has been withdrawn means no fear of acquiring infection," Dr. Gangakhedkar said.

"In the current situation, all of them who come in contact with infected people are likely to get infected. Such a situation can occur when the restrictions are lifted. There will be a small hike in Covid cases," he added.