Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 30 (ANI): Maharashtra Minister Balasaheb Thorat has been tested positive for COVID-19.

The Congress leader took to Twitter to inform of being infected by the virus.

Also Read | Tamil Nadu Rains: Red Alert Issued in Chennai, Kanchipuram, Thiruvallur and Chinglepet in View of Heavy Rainfall.

"I have tested positive for COVID-19. I am asymptomatic and taking treatment on the advice of a doctor. I appeal to all those you have come in my contact to get themselves tested. I urge everyone to wear a mask and follow all COVID-19 protocols," Thorat tweeted.

Meanwhile, as many as 198 new cases of COVID-19's Omicron variant were reported today in Maharashtra. The total number of Omicron cases in Maharashtra has mounted to 450.

Also Read | Bihar: Woman Gives Birth To Child Having Four Legs In Gopalganj District.

Of the 198 patients reported by the National Institute of Virology (NIV), 30 are international travellers, according to the bulletin.

Maharashtra has reported 5,368 fresh COVID-19 cases, a jump of 1,468 over yesterday's numbers, in the last 24 hours.

The active cases in the state now stan at 18,217. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)