Saturday, March 29, 2025
India has detected four Omicron subvariants — LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1 — in recent Covid-19 cases, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Authorities say there is no need for public panic as all cases so far show only mild symptoms.
On Monday, ICMR Director General Dr. Rajiv Bahl confirmed the presence of these Omicron subvariants in India. He emphasized that the outbreak remains under control, and most cases resemble common viral illnesses. “People with weak immunity or pre-existing conditions should remain cautious, but there is no reason for the general public to panic,” he said.
According to the ICMR, both LF.7 and NB.1.8 have been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “Variants Under Monitoring” and are not considered Variants of Concern or Variants of Interest.
Dr. Bahl noted that genomic surveillance continues to understand the recent rise in infections. He also mentioned that more samples are being tested for further clarity.
Addressing concerns about vaccine effectiveness, Dr. Bahl said, “India has platforms ready to develop new vaccines if needed. If a new variant proves resistant, we will either test the effectiveness of current vaccines or develop a new one.”
Delhi health minister Pankaj Singh also addressed public concern and reiterated the government’s preparedness. “There is no cause for worry. The new variant is behaving like a normal viral infection,” he said.
Singh shared that Delhi hospitals have been instructed to prepare oxygen supply, medicines, and ICU beds as a precaution—not as a sign of emergency. “This is routine readiness. We are 200% prepared,” he said confidently.
As of Monday, India has recorded a total of 1,009 active Covid-19 cases. The Health Ministry confirmed 752 new cases, with Kerala leading the country with 430 active infections.
Citizens are advised to continue following basic precautions, especially if they fall into vulnerable health categories.
