India Detects 163 Cases of New XFG Covid Variant

New Delhi, June 10, 2025: India has 163 cases of the newly identified XFG Covid-19 variant, according to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG). The data showed that health officials detected infections caused by the XFG COVID-19 variant across six states, with Maharashtra reporting the highest number. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

The INSACOG data confirmed the presence of the XFG variant in Maharashtra (89 cases), Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh. The variant, which is a recombinant strain derived from two Omicron sub-variants, was first identified in Canada and is a product of recombination between the LF.7 and LP.8.1.2 sub-variants, according to a study published in The Lancet.

Recombinant variants, which are hybrid variants, emerge when two different COVID-19 variants simultaneously infect a person. This leads to a mixing of genetic material, resulting in a new variant with characteristics from both strains.

The XFG variant carries four key spike mutations—His445Arg, Asn487Asp, Gln493Glu, and Thr572Ile. The Lancet study has stated that it can spread rapidly and has a strong ability to evade the body's natural immunity. However, despite its ability to transmit rapidly, there is currently no evidence suggesting that XFG causes severe illness. Experts emphasise that the XFG variant causes mild upper respiratory symptoms, much like other Omicron sub-variants. 

Dr. Rajiv Behl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), stated that LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1 are among the variants of the COVID-19 virus presently circulating in the country. He assured the public that the overall severity of COVID-19 infections caused by these 4 variants is low and there is no immediate cause for alarm.

As of Tuesday morning, India recorded 6,815 active Covid-19 cases, with 324 new infections and three deaths in the past 24 hours, according to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Kerala continues to be the worst-affected state with 2,053 active cases, followed by Gujarat (1,109), West Bengal (747), Delhi (691), and Maharashtra (613).

Despite the relatively mild nature of infections, authorities advise continued adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour, especially in high-case-load states like Kerala, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.

Source: NDTV