New COVID-19 variants: COVID-19 cases in India are rising again. In the past 24 hours, 306 new infections and six deaths were reported, according to the Union Health Ministry. The number of active cases has climbed to 7,121.
States like Kerala, Gujarat, and Karnataka have seen the highest jumps. Kerala reported 170 new cases, the highest single-day increase, pushing its active cases to 2,223. Gujarat reported 114 cases, while Karnataka had 100. Delhi also logged 66 new infections, bringing its total to 757 active cases.
Even though most new cases are mild, the increase shows that the virus is still spreading — and it’s changing. But which variant is most dangerous? We got in touch with an expert who shares and explains various COVID-19 variants creating havoc globally.
“The virus continues to mutate. These small waves will keep happening. It’s important not to ignore them,” said Dr. Laxman Jessani, Consultant, Infectious Diseases, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.
New COVID-19 variants to know about
JN.1 variant (India)
India has already seen cases of the JN.1 variant, which caused a small surge earlier this year. It is part of the Omicron family and spreads easily, though it usually causes mild symptoms such as cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. However, elderly people and those with existing health problems should still be cautious.
“JN.1 was highly contagious, but not more severe. It reminded us that even mild variants can strain the system if many people fall sick at once,” said Dr. Jessani.
XFG variant (India)
Another variant being closely monitored in India is XFG. It carries several mutations and has been detected in states like Telangana. While symptoms remain mild for now, experts warn it can spread quickly.
“Right now, XFG isn’t more dangerous, but it spreads easily. If people stop being careful, it can lead to more cases,” Dr. Jessani warned.
NB.1.8.1 variant (Europe, Asia, North America)
The NB.1.8.1 variant is spreading across Europe, Asia, and North America. Apart from common symptoms like sore throat, fever, and fatigue, it often brings digestive problems such as nausea, diarrhoea, and acid reflux.
“NB.1.8.1 seems to affect the gut more than earlier strains. People are taking longer to recover,” Dr. Jessani said.
LP.8.1 variant (US and Europe)
LP.8.1 is now the dominant variant in the US and parts of Europe. It spreads very fast, including vaccinated people. While it isn’t more dangerous, it’s better at evading existing immunity, which makes it harder to control.
“This variant isn’t more severe, but it’s smart in bypassing immunity from past infections or vaccines,” Dr. Jessani explained.
Another Coronavirus found in bats (HKU5-CoV-2)
A new virus called HKU5-CoV-2 has been found in bats across different countries. It hasn’t infected humans yet, but scientists are keeping an eye on it because it is similar to MERS, a deadly virus from the past.
“It hasn’t jumped to humans yet, but if it does, it could be risky,” warned Dr. Jessani.
What you should do now
The good news is that vaccines still protect against these variants. But with new variants emerging, staying careful is still important.
“Wear a mask in crowded places, stay updated on booster shots, and follow COVID news. Being alert is the best way to stay safe,” Dr. Jessani advised.
While most cases are mild for now, the virus is changing again. Following safety steps and staying informed is the only way you can protect yourself and your loved ones in this new phase of COVID-19.
