New Delhi: Actress Shilpa Shirodkar, who recently was part of Bigg Boss 18, has announced on Instagram that she has tested positive for COVID-19. On Monday, the 51-year-old took to the platform to share an update with fans.
“Hello people! I’ve been tested Positive for COVID,” she wrote in the post.
“Stay Safe and wear your masks,” she added.
The post witnessed best wishes and get well soon comments pouring in in hundreds from fans and well-wishers.
What concerns many about Shirodkar’s diagnosis is that it comes years after the previous wave of COVID came to an end. On the one hand, the virus has now become a lot less lethal than it was back in 2020-2021. However, it often begins with a high fever. During the viral season, it leaves many concerned about whether or not what they are suffering from is viral or COVID-19.
What is the difference between viral and COVID?
A fresh wave of COVID-19 has been reported in parts of Asia, including Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand. This surge is largely driven by the spread of new Omicron sub-variants, especially JN.1 and its descendants. In Singapore, cases rose from 11,100 in the last week of April 2025 to over 14,000 in early May. As per reports, there is no evidence that these new variants are more contagious or severe than earlier strains. LF.7 and NB.1.8—both offshoots of JN.1—are currently the most common variants, accounting for more than two-thirds of all sequenced cases. In India, there are 93 active COVID-19 cases as of May 19, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant, Sharda Hospital, answered all questions about the new variant.
About the JN.1 Variant
JN.1, a sub-variant of Omicron BA.2.86 (also called ‘Pirola’), was identified in August 2023 and designated a Variant of Interest by WHO in December 2023. It carries about 30 mutations that improve its ability to evade immunity. Recent changes have also made it more transmissible.
What are the symptoms of the JN.1 Covid variant?
Common Symptoms of JN.1 Include:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Runny or blocked nose
- Dry cough
- Fatigue or extreme tiredness
- Headache
- Loss of taste or smell
- Precautions to Follow:
- Wear a mask in crowded or enclosed public places
- Wash hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitizer
- Avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms
- Stay home if you feel unwell and monitor symptoms
- Keep rooms well-ventilated
- Stay updated on booster vaccinations as recommended by health authorities
Most mild cases can be managed at home, but severity may depend on individual immunity and health status.
Actress Shilpa Shirodkar, who recently was part of Bigg Boss 18, has announced on Instagram that she has tested positive for COVID-19. On Monday, the 51-year-old took to the platform to share an update with fans. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
