India Detects 163 Cases of XFG COVID Variant Amid Surge
India is witnessing a renewed rise in COVID-19 cases as health authorities confirm the spread of a new Omicron-derived variant, XFG. The country has recorded 163 confirmed cases of the variant, coinciding with a national active caseload that now stands at approximately 6,815.
XFG Variant Spreads Across States
The XFG variant, first identified in Canada, is now present in multiple Indian states. Maharashtra has reported the highest number of cases at 89, followed by Tamil Nadu (16), Kerala (15), Gujarat (11), and six cases each in Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal. The variant is believed to be a recombinant form of Omicron and carries four significant spike-protein mutations.
Health experts have indicated that XFG currently causes only mild illness. Reported symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, fatigue, nasal congestion, and body aches. No severe disease or hospitalisation directly linked to the variant has been reported so far.
Active Cases Rise Sharply
India’s active COVID-19 case count has steadily increased, with 324 new infections and three deaths recorded in the last 24 hours alone. Kerala leads the tally with nearly 2,000 active cases, followed by Gujarat with over 1,100. Gujarat also recorded four COVID-related deaths, including a 16-year-old girl. Other states experiencing notable rises include West Bengal, Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
This surge follows a relatively quiet period earlier this month when national active cases remained below 4,500. The spike in infections has prompted closer monitoring and state-level responses.
Government Urges Precautions, Boosts Readiness
Authorities have urged the public not to panic but to remain cautious, particularly vulnerable groups like the elderly and immunocompromised. Mask usage in crowded areas, hand hygiene, and early testing are being strongly recommended. Isolation when symptomatic remains a key advisory.
To prepare for a potential further rise, hospitals across states are reviewing oxygen supply, ICU bed availability, and conducting emergency drills. Special alerts have been issued in coastal areas and other high-density zones.
📌 Key Highlights:
- 163 XFG cases across India; Maharashtra worst-hit
- Active cases near 6,800 with recent deaths in Gujarat
- XFG symptoms mild but officials stress vigilance
- Hospital and state-level preparedness under way
As the XFG variant quietly expands, India’s COVID response is entering a new phase of containment and awareness. Proactive monitoring, responsible public behavior, and early medical action will remain critical in preventing wider spread.
