Amid a recent surge in COVID-19 cases, two newly identified variants of the coronavirus have emerged in India, according to the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).
Variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 Identified
INSACOG reported one case of the NB.1.8.1 variant in Tamil Nadu in April 2025. In May, Gujarat recorded four cases of the LF.7 variant. These findings have surfaced as part of ongoing genome sequencing efforts across the country.
WHO Monitors Emerging Variants
As of May 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified both NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 as “Variants Under Monitoring.” They have not been listed as “Variants of Concern” or “Variants of Interest.”
According to the WHO, “The additional public health risk posed by NB.1.8.1 is currently evaluated as low at the global level.” Importantly, existing Covid-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against these variants, especially in preventing symptomatic and severe illness.
India’s Predominant Variant: JN.1
Despite the emergence of new subvariants, JN.1 remains the dominant Covid-19 strain in India. It accounts for 53% of the tested samples. BA.2 follows with 26%, while other Omicron sublineages make up the remaining 20%.
Doctors Urge Caution, Not Panic
As reported by Hindustan Times, health experts have reassured the public that the JN.1 variant does not pose a serious health threat. Most patients have exhibited only mild symptoms.
Dr. Dhruv Chauhan, national spokesperson for the Indian Medical Association Junior Doctors Network (IMA JDN), emphasized that JN.1, a descendant of Omicron BA.2.86, is not a lethal strain. “People should not panic. Instead, they should focus on basic precautions—such as hand hygiene, wearing masks in crowded or hospital settings, and practicing respiratory etiquette,” he advised.
Dr. Chauhan also highlighted the importance of seeking medical advice if symptoms appear. “Remember, panic and misinformation can lead to more health issues than the virus itself,” he added.
States Take Precautionary Steps
In response to the rising numbers, states like Haryana and Karnataka have introduced special Covid-19 measures. However, authorities have urged the public to stay calm and not give in to fear.
Conclusion
While new Covid-19 variants continue to emerge, experts stress the importance of staying informed, maintaining precautionary measures, and avoiding panic. Current vaccines still offer protection, and mild symptoms remain the norm for most cases associated with the dominant JN.1 variant.