Dr Swati Rajagopal, Consultant – Infectious Disease and Travel Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru
India has recorded over 1,000 COVID cases, and two new variants are said to be contributing to the surge. Here’s all you need to know about their symptoms and necessary measures to safeguard yourself and your loved ones.Amid a rise in COVID-19 cases, two newly detected Omicron subvariants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, are believed to be contributing to the current surge in India. With the number of active cases surpassing 1,000, health authorities encourage vigilance.
What You Should Know About NB.1.8.1 And LF.7
According to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), so far, one case of NB.1.8.1 and four cases of LF.7 have been detected in India. Both the variants are said to be the descendants of the JN.1 variant, which belongs to the Omicron strain.As of May 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified LF.7 and NB.1.8 subvariants as “Variants Under Monitoring”, not as “Variants of Concern or Variants of Interest”.
Symptoms of New COVID Variants: Similar to Most Viral Symptoms
“The current COVID-19 variant in circulation is an Omicron sub-variant, NB.1.8.1,” confirms infectious disease expert Dr Rajagopal. She says, “The symptoms are generally similar to most viral infections. Patients may experience a sore throat, cough, mild fever, body aches, headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, loose motions, dizziness, and muscle or general fatigue. These symptoms closely resemble those seen with other viral fevers, including influenza.” While we’re not seeing a sudden or alarming spike in cases, pre-monsoon weather changes can lead to an increase in respiratory viral illnesses, the doctor warns.
Infectious Disease Expert Says “No Cause for Panic”
According to Dr Rajagopal, COVID-19 is now behaving like many other viral illnesses, and therefore, there’s no need for panic or major concern. However, instead of worrying, it’s important to take precautions, especially in crowded areas.The WHO has said, “Despite a concurrent increase in cases and hospitalizations in some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation.”
Who Should Be Cautious?
High-risk individuals, such as those who are immunocompromised, transplant recipients, people on long-term steroid therapy, uncontrolled diabetics, those with chronic respiratory illnesses like asthma or COPD, and the elderly, should be particularly cautious.While symptoms of Omicron sub-variants are mostly mild, these vulnerable groups can experience serious complications.
Safety Measures to Take
The recommended measures include:
- Wearing a mask in crowded places
- Following cough etiquette
- Avoiding open coughing or sneezing
- Using hand sanitizer or washing hands frequently
Additionally, Dr Rajagopal advises getting the influenza vaccination, especially for high-risk groups, since there is also a noticeable increase in flu cases, and vaccines are readily available.Furthermore, if someone feels unwell with a high fever, sore throat, persistent cough, or body aches that do not improve within 48 hours, it’s important not to self-medicate. Get tested. RT-PCR tests are available in both government and private healthcare centres and can effectively detect the virus.
Conclusion
Over the years, many variants and subvariants of COVID-19 have emerged. Now, two new subvariants of the Omicron strain are believed to be driving the current surge in the COVID cases in India. While health authorities suggest that the symptoms remain mild, it is crucial to take necessary measures to curb the spread. This is particularly important for people in the vulnerable groups. If you have symptoms, get tested and consult a doctor for proper guidance.