India is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases driven by the emerging JN.1 variant, prompting heightened vigilance from health authorities. Over recent days, multiple states—including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka—have reported increased infections linked to this variant.
On Saturday, the Union Health Secretary convened a high-level meeting with officials from the Department of Health Research, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to assess the evolving situation.
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“This variant is not harmful. In COVID testing, around 2 out of 10 patients are turning out positive, and in many cases,… pic.twitter.com/RoVgSsknZ1
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 24, 2025
The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and ICMR reaffirmed the strength of India’s nationwide respiratory virus sentinel surveillance network, which continuously monitors COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. Authorities noted that most new cases have been mild, with patients managed through home quarantine.
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INSACOG data indicates that among recent cases, the JN.1 variant accounts for 53 percent, followed by BA.2 (26 percent), and other Omicron sub-lineages (20 percent). Additionally, a small number of cases involving NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 variants have been detected. State health departments reported further cases as of May 24.
Testing positive means nothing. The testing nonsense should stop. Journos like @manojbadgeriTOI should understand the basics and stop counting Covid. Covid is a hoax we should have understood by now. pic.twitter.com/sTMmUomt5J
— Dee (@DeeEternalOpt) May 25, 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified LF.7 and NB.1.8 sub-variants as “Variants Under Monitoring,” citing their role in COVID-19 surges in China and parts of Asia.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has reiterated its commitment to closely monitor case trends and maintain preparedness to manage the evolving pandemic landscape.