Covid-19 Surge In India: XFG Variant Detected In Over 200 Cases Across States
Covid-19 News: India is witnessing a steady surge in Covid-19 cases, with active infections crossing 7,000 as of June 11, according to the Union Health Ministry.
In the past 24 hours alone, over 300 new cases and six deaths have been reported. While most infections remain mild and manageable at home, the emergence of a new variant, XFG, has raised fresh concerns. Health authorities across states have been directed to stay alert and ensure adequate oxygen supply, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines.
Covid-19 Surge In India:What Is XFG Covid-19 Variant?
The XFG variant is a newly identified strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which experts believe is part of its natural evolutionary cycle. Former Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General Dr Balram Bhargava addressed the development, saying:
“The emergence of the XFG variant is part of the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s natural evolution.”
As per data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), 206 cases have been attributed to the XFG variant so far. The highest number has been reported in Maharashtra (89), followed by West Bengal (49). Other states and Union Territories reporting XFG-linked cases include Tamil Nadu (16), Kerala (15), Gujarat (11), Madhya Pradesh (6), Andhra Pradesh (6), Odisha (4), Puducherry (3), Delhi (2), Rajasthan (2), and one case each in Punjab, Telangana, and Haryana.
Dr Bhargava further explained that this variant may be more adept at attaching to human cells and avoiding immune detection.
“Early reports suggest that the variant has high immune escape potential, but there is no current evidence to indicate (an) increased severity (of disease),” he said.
Covid-19 Surge In India:India’s Diagnostic Readiness Remains Strong
Despite the emergence of new variants, Dr Bhargava reassured that India is well-prepared. The country continues to rely on the RT-PCR test the gold standard for detecting SARS-CoV-2 while also expanding the use of Truenat, a rapid molecular testing platform that uses RT-PCR technology and can be deployed in rural and resource-limited settings.
He highlighted the importance of point-of-care antibody testing as well, stating that it played a vital role during earlier phases of the pandemic and continues to aid in detecting newer variants like XFG.
“Vigilance is critical now, and not panic. As we have done in the past, we should continue testing when symptomatic, masking in crowded spaces, and staying up to date with vaccinations,” he said.
Covid-19 Surge In India:India’s Current Covid-19 Situation
Since the beginning of the current wave in January 2024, India has reported 74 deaths. The most affected state is Kerala, which currently has over 2,200 active cases, followed by Gujarat (1,223) and Delhi (757).
According to officials, most of the current cases are mild and don’t require hospitalisation. However, states have been told to keep their healthcare infrastructure prepared in case of any sudden spike.
In addition to XFG, INSACOG data reveals 21 new infections linked to the LF.7 variant, with Maharashtra and Gujarat reporting six cases each. Two cases have also been attributed to the NB.1.8.1 variant, found in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
