New Delhi: India is witnessing a sharp spike in Covid-19 cases, and this comes long after a wave of Omicron sub-variants entered an endemic stage. At present, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 sub-variants have been detected and alerts have been issued in various regions such as Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. According to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), one case of NB.1.8.1 was recorded in Tamil Nadu in April, while Gujarat has reported four cases of LF.7 in May. More recently, Noida reported its first confirmed case during this wave—a 55-year-old woman who had recently travelled by train. She is currently recovering at home in isolation, and all her close contacts have tested negative.
In a separate development, AIIMS Rishikesh confirmed three COVID-19 cases this month. While one patient has been discharged, the other two remain under observation.
What Are NB.1.8.1 and LF.7?
These two subvariants are part of the evolving Omicron JN.1 lineage, which currently dominates the viral landscape in India, accounting for more than 50% of sequenced samples. Although not classified as ‘Variants of Concern’ or ‘Variants of Interest’ yet, the World Health Organization is monitoring them due to their genetic mutations, which might affect transmission and immune evasion.
NB.1.8.1, for example, carries spike protein mutations—A435S, V445H, and T478I—believed to enhance infectivity and resistance to immunity. Experts suggest that JN.1 and its subvariants may be around 1.5 times more contagious than previous strains. Despite this, the clinical impact has mostly been limited to mild illness with low hospitalisation rates.
Is There Cause for Concern?
As of mid-May, India had around 257 active COVID-19 cases, with states like Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu recording the highest counts. Kerala alone reported 273 cases this month. In response to the rise in cases, cities like Delhi have issued advisories to ensure hospitals are equipped with adequate beds, medicines, oxygen, and vaccine doses.
What About Vaccination?
Although India does not have variant-specific vaccines, the current set of boosters can offer significant protection. It can reduce symptomatic infections by approximately 50% and the risk of illness by 50%. However, booster use is still patchy, specifically in the elderly and other people with comorbidities. Doctors say that people must get booster shots, maintain hygiene, and wear a mask in crowded places.
NB.1.8.1, for example, carries spike protein mutations—A435S, V445H, and T478I—believed to enhance infectivity and resistance to immunity. Experts suggest that JN.1 and its subvariants may be around 1.5 times more contagious than previous strains. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
