India detects two new Covid variants under WHO monitoring, says central agency

India has identified two new Covid-19 variants named LF.7 and NB.1.8.1, according to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (Insacog). Both variants are currently classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as Variants Under Monitoring, meaning they are being closely observed but are not yet deemed Variants of Concern or Interest.

The NB.1.8.1 variant was detected in Tamil Nadu in April, while four cases of LF.7 were reported in Gujarat in May. These variants have contributed to a rise in Covid cases in parts of Asia and China. Despite this, India’s dominant variant remains JN.1, which accounts for 53 percent of recent samples, followed by BA.2 and other Omicron sublineages.

The NB.1.8.1 variant carries specific spike protein mutations that may increase transmissibility and immune evasion, but the WHO currently assesses it as posing a low global public health risk. As of May 19, India reported 257 active Covid cases, mostly mild, with new infections rising gradually in states like Kerala, Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Maharashtra has seen a notable rise in cases, with 166 active infections and 93 new cases reported over the past two days, predominantly in Mumbai and Pune. Most patients are experiencing mild symptoms and are under home care. Covid-related deaths this year in the state have involved patients with serious underlying health issues.

A national review meeting involving health experts from the National Centre for Disease Control and ICMR was recently held to monitor the situation. The Union Health Secretary has emphasized ongoing vigilance while assuring that the majority of cases remain mild and manageable.