India’s Active Covid Cases Near 6,500 as New XFG Variant Spreads

A fresh rise in Covid-19 cases is seen in India recently, with active infections climbing to 6,491, according to the latest figures from the Ministry of Health. Health officials are also keeping a close eye on a new variant, known as XFG, which has been linked to a growing number of cases.

Kerala has emerged as the worst-hit state so far, with 1,957 active cases. Seven new infections were reported there in the last 24 hours alone.

The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has confirmed that over 160 of the current cases are due to the XFG variant. Most of these — 89 — have been found in Maharashtra, followed by Tamil Nadu (16), Kerala (15), and Gujarat (11). Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal have each reported six cases.

XFG is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant and was first identified in Canada, according to a study published in The Lancet. The variant carries several mutations that help it spread quickly and avoid the body’s immune defences, making it harder to control.

Other states also seeing a rise in cases include Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Delhi, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Haryana.

Meanwhile, health authorities are urging the public to stay cautious, especially in areas with rising cases, and to follow basic preventive measures like wearing masks in crowded places and staying home if unwell.