As of May 2025, the WHO has identified LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 as Variants Under Monitoring. This means these new subvariants of the COVID-19 virus are being closely watched but are not yet classified as Variants of Concern (VOC).
India is once again witnessing a big rise in COVID-19 cases across the country. As of now, the number of active COVID-19 cases in the country stands at 5,364. At the same time, 4,724 people have recovered and been discharged from hospitals and home isolation across different states. Kerala leads the chart with 1,679 cases, followed by Gujrat (615), West Bengak (596) and Delhi (562).
Here’s a quick look at active cases in some major states:
- Delhi – 562 cases
- Gujarat – 615 cases
- Karnataka – 451 cases
- Kerala – 1,679 cases
- Maharashtra – 548 cases
- Rajasthan – 107 cases
- Tamil Nadu – 221 cases
- Uttar Pradesh – 205 cases
- West Bengal – 596 cases
Unfortunately, four COVID-related deaths have also been reported.
Karnataka: 1 Death
A 65-year-old man passed away. He was also suffering from high blood pressure and uncontrolled diabetes. His COVID-19 infection was found incidentally while treating other conditions.
Kerala: 2 Deaths
A 74-year-old woman, who had multiple health problems including severe heart valve disease, COPD, high blood pressure, and diabetes, died after testing positive for COVID-19.
A 79-year-old man, also from Kerala, passed away. He had high blood pressure, a history of stroke, liver disease, and a urinary tract infection caused by bacteria.
Punjab: 1 Death
A 69-year-old woman lost her life. She had pulmonary thromboembolism (a serious lung condition), along with morbid obesity.
Health officials continue to keep a close watch on the situation. People, especially those with other health issues, are advised to take precautions and avoid crowded places if feeling unwell.
PTI INFOGRAPHICS on covid cases across India
Covid Variants
As of May 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 as Variants Under Monitoring. This means these new subvariants of the COVID-19 virus are being closely watched but are not yet classified as Variants of Concern (VOC) or Variants of Interest (VOI).
However, health experts believe that these strains may be playing a role in the recent spike in infections, not only in India, but also in China and other parts of Asia. While more research is still underway, authorities are urging the public to remain cautious, especially those with underlying health conditions or weakened immunity.
Even though new COVID-19 subvariants are being detected, JN.1 is still the most common strain in India. It makes up a massive 53% of all positive cases across the country right now.
According to the latest report from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG):
One case of the subvariant NB.1.8.1 was found in Tamil Nadu in April. Four cases of LF.7 were identified in Gujarat earlier in June.
Health experts say that while these newer strains are being closely monitored, JN.1 remains the main cause behind the current wave of infections. People are being urged to stay cautious, especially those with health risks or low immunity.
