The National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune on Wednesday said that it has identified and is closely monitoring four sub-variants of the Omicron strain that are likely behind the recent rise in Covid-19 cases across India.
Dr. Naveen Kumar, Director of NIV, said the institute is currently genome sequencing and isolating the 4 sub-variants to better understand their impact, especially on vaccine effectiveness. “Isolation is important to replace the existing vaccine strain if at all it is required,” he explained. “Whether or not this needs to be replaced is something which is to be critically analysed based on the severity of the disease.”
According to Kumar, the recent surge that came to light in mid-April was initially driven by the JN.1.16 sub-lineage of Omicron. However, since May, the XFG variant—specifically LF.7 and LP.81.2—has become more dominant.
After sequencing samples from across the country four sub-variants namely LF.7, XFG, JN.1.16, and NB.1.8.1 have been found, he said. He added that strains first identified in Singapore about five to six weeks ago are now circulating in India. “So far, it appears that the strains are not much severe,” Kumar noted, stressing that any decision to update vaccines would come only after extensive discussions amongst the policy makers.
Currently, India has two monovalent Omicron-based vaccines available — Corbivax by Biological E Limited and COVOVAX by the Serum Institute of India.
As part of ongoing surveillance efforts, full genome sequences of the new sub-variants have been submitted to both the Indian Biological Data Centre and the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data.
Meanwhile, active Covid cases in the country have seen a slight dip. As of June 18, India had 6,483 active cases, down from 6,837 a day earlier. Despite the rise in infections, the severity has remained low, with most patients recovering at home. Since January 1, a total of 113 Covid-related deaths have been reported, primarily among individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Kerala continues to report the highest number of active cases, followed by Gujarat, Karnataka, and Delhi. The Union Health Ministry has directed all states to ensure the availability of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines as a precautionary measure.
(With inputs from PTI)