Dharwad has recorded its first COVID-19 case of the current season—a 73-year-old woman who tested positive and is undergoing treatment at the District Hospital. Her condition is reported to be stable, according to a bulletin from the district administration.

With Karnataka reporting 9 new cases and a test positivity rate of 8.65%, health officials have ramped up precautions. Authorities have mandated testing of at least 5% of SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infection) cases using RT-PCR kits still available from previous COVID waves. These kits will be used on a first-in, first-out basis to avoid wastage.

The Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Hubballi, will serve as the regional testing hub, processing samples from Dharwad, Gadag, Belagavi, and Bagalkote districts.

Officials have urged the public to stay vigilant and follow basic COVID safety measures—especially in crowded spaces—to prevent further spread.