COVID-19: India reports over 28,000 new cases in 24 hours

India reported another record surge of coronavirus infections on Monday, adding 28,701 new cases over the previous 24 hours.

Authorities in several cities are reinstating strict lockdowns after attempting to loosen things up to revive an ailing economy.

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COVID19 Another record daily jump as India reports over 28000 new cases

The new cases raised the national total to 878,254. The Health Ministry also reported another 500 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking total fatalities up to 23,174.

New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and Pune are among the key Indian cities witnessing a surge in infections. Several states also have announced stringent lockdowns in high-risk areas.

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan attends an event. File photo

Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan says he has tested positive for the coronavirus and is hospitalized in Mumbai.

In a tweet on Saturday, the 77-year-old Bachchan said his family and staff have also undergone tests and are awaiting results.

His 44-year-old son and fellow actor, Abhishek Bachchan, tweeted Saturday night that he also has tested positive for the virus and is hospitalized. He described their symptoms as mild.

The elder Bachchan has acted in more than 200 Indian films over the past five decades. He is also a former politician and television host.

Associated Press