The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) informed on Monday that the recent Covid 19 variants reported from India are exhibiting mild symptoms. The variants in question are four subvariants of Omicron: LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1.
Government Urges Caution, Not Panic
ICMR has requested people, especially those with underlying health conditions or low immunity, to remain cautious. However, the council emphasized that there is no need to panic at this point, as the symptoms are mild.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorized the LF.7 and NB.1.8 subvariants as “Variants Under Monitoring” rather than “Variants of Concern” or “Variants of Interest.” This indicates that while the variants are being closely observed, they do not pose an immediate serious threat.
Government Surveillance and Preparedness for Covid
ICMR Director General, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, mentioned that surveillance is ongoing to understand the reasons behind the increase in cases. He assured that the government is prepared to handle the situation. The government is also testing more samples to gather further information on the variants.
Dr. Bahl emphasized that the government has developed platforms to create new vaccines. If a new variant emerges in the future, the government is prepared with two options: evaluating the effectiveness of existing vaccines or developing a new vaccine specifically targeting the new variant.
Delhi Health Minister Asks Public Not to Panic
Delhi’s Health Minister, Pankaj Singh, also addressed the situation by urging the public not to panic despite a mild surge in cases. He mentioned that official data shows 104 active cases in Delhi but reassured citizens that hospitals are prepared for any emergency.
India reported a total of 1,009 active Covid-19 cases as of Monday, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This includes 752 newly confirmed cases. In the latest report, Kerala leads with 430 active cases.
Preparedness in Hospitals for Covid
Hospitals across India have been instructed to be prepared with beds, oxygen, and essential medicines, although the current situation does not warrant alarm. The health minister reassured citizens that Covid-19 cases caused by the new variants are similar to a normal viral illness, with symptoms such as fever, cough, and cold.
The government continues to monitor the situation closely and is taking necessary precautions to ensure public health safety.
