The newly detected XFG variant of COVID-19, now linked to over 200 cases in India, is part of the virus’s natural evolution, according to Dr Balram Bhargava, former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
“The emergence of the XFG variant is part of the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s natural evolution,” said Dr Bhargava, who led India’s scientific response during the early phase of the pandemic.
India’s active COVID-19 caseload has crossed 7,000, with one death reported in the last 24 hours. The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has confirmed 206 cases of the XFG variant, with the majority in Maharashtra (89) and West Bengal (49).
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Dr Bhargava noted that while the XFG variant shows signs of higher immune escape, there is currently no evidence of increased disease severity. “This is a typical pattern in virus evolution. As we’ve seen before, new mutations allow the virus to spread or evade immunity but don’t always make it more dangerous,” he said.
Other states reporting XFG infections include Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and several others in smaller numbers.
Despite the uptick, India’s diagnostic infrastructure remains robust. Dr Bhargava stressed on the importance of RT-PCR tests and rapid molecular platforms like Truenat for early detection, even in remote regions.
“Vigilance is critical now, and not panic. As we have done in the past, we should continue testing when symptomatic, masking in crowded spaces, and staying up to date with vaccinations,” he said.
India has reported 74 COVID-related deaths in the latest surge, which began in January. Most cases remain mild and are being managed at home, according to the Health Ministry. All states have been advised to maintain readiness with oxygen, isolation beds, and essential supplies.
INSACOG also reported 21 cases of the LF.7 variant and 2 cases of NB.1.8.1, mostly in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.
