New Delhi: India recorded 306 new Covid-19 infections over the past 24 hours, pushing the active caseload to 7,121, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday. Six Covid-related deaths were also reported during this period — three from Kerala, two from Karnataka, and one from Maharashtra.
Among the deceased was a 43-year-old man with a weakened immune system, while the remaining five were elderly individuals with pre-existing respiratory or chronic health conditions.
In comparison, the previous day saw 324 new cases and three fatalities — one each from Delhi, Jharkhand, and Kerala. Those who died included a 44-year-old man with hypothyroidism and hypertension, and two elderly patients with chronic respiratory illnesses.
Rise in Cases Linked to New Variants
India is witnessing a gradual increase in Covid-19 cases, largely attributed to emerging variants such as LF.7, JN.1, NB.1.8.1, and the newly identified XFG subvariant. Health experts have flagged the need for continued vigilance and testing, especially with the rise in immune-evasive strains.
India Well-Prepared to Tackle XFG Variant: Experts
Speaking on the emergence of the XFG variant, former ICMR Director General Dr. Balram Bhargava said it reflects the natural progression of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. He assured that India’s healthcare infrastructure is well-equipped to respond swiftly, citing the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like Truenat and RT-PCR.
The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has detected 163 cases of the XFG variant so far. Dr. Bhargava noted that while XFG may possess a higher immune escape potential due to specific mutations that enhance its binding to human cells, there is currently no evidence to suggest it causes more severe illness.
“Thanks to expanded access to rapid molecular diagnostics—even in remote areas—India is in a strong position to monitor and control the spread of new variants,” he added.
Continued Monitoring Urged
Health authorities continue to urge the public to stay cautious, especially vulnerable groups, as the virus evolves. Routine testing, genomic surveillance, and vaccination remain key tools in preventing large-scale outbreaks.
