India detects new COVID-19 subvariants LF.7 and NB.1.8 amid rising cases

India has recorded over 1,000 active COVID-19 cases as of May 26, with health authorities confirming the presence of two emerging subvariants—LF.7 and NB.1.8.

These newly detected strains are offshoots of the fast-spreading JN.1 lineage and are currently being closely monitored by global and national health bodies.

The Union Health Ministry reported that Delhi alone has registered 104 active cases, 99 of which surfaced within the past week. Kerala is witnessing the highest number of infections at 430, followed by Maharashtra with 209.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has placed LF.7 and NB.1.8 under the "Variants Under Monitoring" category. This means they are being tracked for their potential to spread or cause severe illness but are not yet considered "Variants of Concern" or "Variants of Interest."

According to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a single case of NB.1.8.1 was detected in Tamil Nadu back in April, while Gujarat reported four cases of LF.7 in May. These variants have also been linked to a rise in COVID-19 cases in China, Singapore, and Hong Kong in recent weeks.

Medical experts are urging the public to remain calm but vigilant. "There's no need to panic, but exercising caution is essential. A couple of deaths have been reported, so can't take it lightly. It is important to practice caution," said Dr. Sharad Joshi, Director & HOD, Pulmonology and Paediatric Pulmonology, Max Healthcare to NDTV.

He further recommends basic preventive measures to minimize risk: "To protect ourselves and those around us, it's important to practice good respiratory hygiene. This includes wearing a mask, covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and maintaining a safe distance where possible. It may be wise to avoid non-essential travel, large gatherings, and outings for the time being."