India has reported fresh cases of Covid-19 as two new subvariants — NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 — have been detected in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. While health experts say the current cases are mostly mild, they are urging high-risk individuals to stay alert, get booster shots, and follow basic precautions.
According to INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium), one case of NB.1.8.1 was recorded in Tamil Nadu in April, while Gujarat reported four cases of LF.7 in May. These variants are linked to the rapidly evolving Omicron family, particularly the JN.1 strain, which remains the dominant variant in India, accounting for over 50% of recent cases.
New Cases Across India: The Spread Is Real
In Uttar Pradesh, a 55-year-old woman from Noida recently tested positive after a train journey. She is in home isolation, and her close contacts have tested negative, according to health officials.
Meanwhile, AIIMS Rishikesh reported three cases, with one patient already discharged and the other two under observation. Dr. Meenu Singh, Director of AIIMS Rishikesh, assured the public, saying, “This variant isn’t very harmful, but vulnerable people should still be cautious.”
Are These New Subvariants Dangerous?
NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 are sub-lineages of JN.1, and while they carry mutations that may improve transmissibility and immune escape, they are not yet classified as Variants of Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). Instead, they are being tracked as Variants Under Monitoring.
Preliminary data shows that NB.1.8.1 contains mutations like A435S, V445H, and T478I, which could make it more infectious. However, the good news is that most infections are still mild, with low hospitalization rates.
Dr. Arup Halder, a Pulmonologist from Kolkata, explained:
“The rise in cases is mainly due to reduced immunity and poor booster uptake — not because the virus has suddenly become deadlier.”
Should You Be Worried?
As of May 19, India had 257 active Covid-19 cases. But the weekly trend shows a spike — with Delhi reporting over 100, Kerala 400, and 750 new cases nationwide.
Cities like Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Chennai, and Delhi are seeing more activity. Authorities in Delhi have issued advisories to hospitals to ensure beds, oxygen, and vaccine supplies are ready, just in case.
Despite the increase, doctors are urging calm.
“The situation is under control. No need to panic,” said Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee from Indraprastha Apollo Hospital.
Boosters, Not Panic — What You Can Do
India has administered over 2.2 billion Covid vaccine doses, but booster shot coverage is still patchy, especially among senior citizens and people with health conditions.
Dr. Halder emphasized:
“Current boosters can reduce your risk of falling sick by 50%, and cut chances of severe illness by 80%.”
He also added that vaccine hesitancy is still a challenge — often driven by misinformation or access issues.
Public Health Advice
If you are elderly, immunocompromised, or living with chronic illnesses, experts recommend:
- ✅ Get your booster dose immediately.
- 😷 Wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces.
- 🧼 Maintain good hygiene (handwashing, sanitizing).
- 🚶♀️ Avoid unnecessary travel or crowded gatherings if you’re high-risk.
⚠️ Bottom Line
The new variants aren’t a cause for panic, but they are a reminder that Covid hasn’t disappeared. Staying alert, vaccinated, and following simple precautions can help protect you and those around you.
