By The Sampadak Express
India is witnessing a fresh rise in COVID-19 cases, with active infections nearing the 6,500 mark. According to the latest update from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the country currently has 6,491 active cases, signaling a gradual uptick in infections.
Kerala Worst-Hit in Ongoing Surge
State-wise data shows Kerala leading the tally with 1,957 active cases, including seven new infections reported in the past 24 hours. Other states reporting significant case numbers include Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Delhi, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Haryana.
Since the beginning of 2025, 65 COVID-related deaths have been reported across various states, although no fatalities were recorded in the last 24 hours. These deaths occurred in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Delhi.
Emergence of New XFG Variant
The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has identified a newly emerging variant of the coronavirus XFG, which is gaining traction in several states. As per INSACOG data cited by PTI, 163 cases of the XFG variant have been detected across India.
The breakdown of XFG cases by state is as follows:
Maharashtra: 89 cases
Tamil Nadu: 16 cases
Kerala: 15 cases
Gujarat: 11 cases
Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal: 6 cases each
What Is the XFG Variant?
The XFG variant is a descendant of the Omicron lineage, and was first identified in Canada, according to a recent study published in The Lancet. It originates from Omicron subvariants LF.7 and LP.8.1.2, and is characterized by four significant spike protein mutations His445Arg, Asn487Asp, Gln493Glu, and Thr572Ile.
These mutations are believed to contribute to the variant’s enhanced immune evasion capabilities, making it more adept at spreading by evading the body’s immune defenses.
Health Authorities Monitoring Situation
Although the current case numbers remain relatively low compared to past surges, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation due to the emergence of the XFG variant and its potential implications for transmission and vaccine effectiveness.
Citizens are advised to continue following COVID-appropriate behavior and stay updated on guidance from health officials.
