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May 25, 2025 | New Delhi
India has reported the emergence of two new COVID-19 variants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, according to the latest data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG). The discovery comes amid a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases across the country, prompting health authorities to monitor the situation closely.
Details of the New Variants
INSACOG data reveals that one case of the NB.1.8.1 variant was identified in Tamil Nadu in April, while four instances of the LF.7 variant were detected in Gujarat in May. Both variants have been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “Variants Under Monitoring” as of May 2025. They are not currently categorized as “Variants of Concern” or “Variants of Interest.”
According to the WHO, “the additional public health risk posed by NB.1.8.1 is evaluated as low at the global level.” The organization also emphasized that currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against these variants, particularly in preventing symptomatic and severe disease.
Current COVID-19 Landscape in India
Despite the detection of these new variants, the predominant strain in India remains JN.1, which accounts for 53% of tested samples. The BA.2 variant follows at 26%, with other Omicron sublineages making up the remaining 20%.
Health experts, including Dr. Dhruv Chauhan, national spokesperson for the Indian Medical Association Junior Doctors Network (IMA JDN), have urged the public not to panic. “This is not a lethal variant and it’s always better to take precautions like maintaining hand hygiene, wearing masks where necessary such as in hospitals or crowded places and following respiratory hygiene,” Dr. Chauhan advised. He also stressed the importance of consulting a qualified doctor if symptoms arise.
Public Health Response
States like Haryana and Karnataka have made special arrangements to manage the recent surge, but officials continue to urge against unnecessary alarm. Most patients infected with the currently dominant strains have reported only mild symptoms, according to medical professionals.
Precautionary Measures
Doctors recommend the following steps to reduce risk:
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Maintain regular hand hygiene
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Wear masks in crowded or high-risk settings (e.g., hospitals)
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Practice respiratory hygiene
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Seek medical advice if COVID-19 symptoms develop
Conclusion
While the emergence of new variants is being carefully monitored, health authorities and experts agree that the risk to public health remains low at this time. Vaccination and adherence to basic preventive measures continue to be the most effective ways to stay protected.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information available as of May 25, 2025, from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), the World Health Organization (WHO), and statements from medical professionals. The situation regarding COVID-19 variants is evolving, and readers are advised to follow official guidance from health authorities and consult healthcare professionals for the most up-to-date information.
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