India Enhances COVID-19 Surveillance Amid New Variant Threats

COVID-19 cases are declining in India, but the ICMR-NIV is closely monitoring the emerging Singapore strain, Nimbus variant. Director Dr. Naveen Kumar emphasized increased vigilance, while Dr. Rajiv Bahl stated ongoing efforts in surveillance, transmission analysis, and vaccine preparedness against mild Omicron-like current variants.

As COVID-19 active cases decline steadily in India, attention has turned to monitoring new variants like the Singapore strain, Nimbus variant. Dr. Naveen Kumar, Director of ICMR-NIV Pune, confirmed the presence of these variants in recent samples.

ICMR and NIV are actively conducting genomic analysis on circulating SARS-COV-2 variants. 'We've detected positive strains in respiratory samples,' Dr. Kumar noted, explaining the never-zero scenario of cases even during declines. The recent surge in Singapore and neighboring regions prompted heightened surveillance here, observing these strains over the past few weeks.

Currently, omicron sub-variants like JN.1, LF.7, XFG, and NB.1.8.1 are at play in India. Though these strains haven't shown increased severity, continuous isolation and monitoring efforts are in place. In an ANI exclusive, ICMR DG Dr. Rajiv Bahl emphasized the government's efforts in monitoring transmission and ensuring vaccine readiness, highlighting mild symptoms observed in present variants.

(With inputs from agencies.)