India Faces Surge in COVID-19 Cases Amid Emergence of New Variants

KKN Gurugram Desk | India is witnessing a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, attributed to the emergence of new Omicron subvariants. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation as infections rise across several states.

Emerging Variants: JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG

The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has identified multiple new subvariants of the Omicron strain, including:

• JN.1: Currently the most prevalent variant in India, accounting for over 50% of tested samples.

• NB.1.8.1: First detected in Tamil Nadu in April 2025. This variant has mutations that may increase its transmissibility.

• LF.7: Four cases confirmed in Gujarat in May 2025. This variant is under observation for its potential impact on public health.

• XFG: Detected in Rajasthan, with two cases confirmed through genome sequencing.

These variants are classified as “Variants Under Monitoring” by the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating that they are being closely observed but are not currently considered variants of concern.

State-Wise COVID-19 Situation

Maharashtra

As of May 29, 2025, Maharashtra reported 76 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of active cases in the state to 425. The majority of new cases were recorded in Mumbai (27), followed by Pune (21) and Thane (12). Since January, the state has reported seven COVID-19-related deaths, all among individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan reported 15 new COVID-19 cases on May 29, with Jaipur accounting for nine of these cases. Genome sequencing of samples from four patients revealed two cases each of the XFG and LF.7.9 variants. Health officials have advised caution, especially for vulnerable populations.

Karnataka

Karnataka has reported its second COVID-19 death in a week, involving a 70-year-old man from Belagavi district with multiple comorbidities. The state recorded 42 new cases on May 29, with a test positivity rate of 8.18%.

Chandigarh

Chandigarh reported its first COVID-19 death of 2025, involving a 40-year-old man from Uttar Pradesh. His children have also tested positive but are currently asymptomatic.

National Overview

As of May 26, 2025, India has recorded 1,010 active COVID-19 cases. The states with the highest number of active cases include Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi. Health authorities emphasize that while the situation is under control, continued vigilance is necessary.

Common Symptoms of New Variants

Patients infected with the new variants have reported symptoms such as:

• Sore throat or hoarseness

• Fever

• Diarrhea and mild stomach pain

• Fatigue

• Changes in voice

Health experts advise individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention and get tested promptly.

Government Measures and Public Advisory

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, along with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has issued guidelines to all states to:

• Increase testing rates

• Ensure availability of hospital beds, oxygen, and essential medicines

• Encourage the use of masks in public places

• Administer booster doses to high-risk groups

The public is urged to adhere to COVID-19 appropriate behavior, including wearing masks, maintaining hand hygiene, and practicing social distancing.

While the emergence of new COVID-19 variants has led to a rise in cases across India, health authorities maintain that the situation is manageable. Continued public cooperation and adherence to safety protocols are essential to prevent further spread of the virus.