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Why Are There More COVID-19 Cases in India? Infections Active Increase to 7,121
June 12, 2025 – Kolkata : The number of COVID-19 infections in India is significantly rising, with active cases reaching 7,121 according to the most recent Health Ministry data. Just in the past 24 hours, six Covid-related deaths have been recorded, marking a renewed concern for public health authorities.
States like Kerala (2,223 active cases), Gujarat (1,223), Delhi (757), West Bengal (747), and Maharashtra (615) are among the worst-hit regions. This surge is believed to be driven by the emergence and rapid spread of new Omicron sub-variants, particularly XFG and NB.1.8.1.
New Variants of COVID-19 Are Leading the Increase
According to the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), multiple variants of the coronavirus are currently in circulation in India. These include LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1.
The XFG variant has been detected in at least 163 cases across the country as of June 9. Maharashtra alone accounts for 89 of these cases, while other infections have been identified in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh.
About the XFG Variant
The XFG variant is a recombinant sub-lineage from the Omicron family, formed by the merging of two strains — LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. According to a report published in The Lancet, this variant is especially concerning because it can effectively evade the body’s immune defences, enabling faster and wider transmission. Thankfully, it does not appear to cause severe illness.
NB.1.8.1: The Dominant Variant in Asia
Another major contributor to the rising cases is the NB.1.8.1 variant, a fast-spreading descendant of Omicron. Initially identified among international travellers in the US between March and April 2025, NB.1.8.1 has now become the dominant strain in China and Hong Kong. In India, it is rapidly gaining ground but, like XFG, it tends to cause only mild symptoms.
Common Symptoms to Watch Out For
The symptoms associated with both XFG and NB.1.8.1 are consistent with previous Omicron sub-variants. Patients have reported:
- Fever and chills
- Dry or sore throat
- Runny nose and sneezing
- Headache and fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Body aches
These are generally upper respiratory symptoms and rarely lead to hospitalization. However, vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses are still at higher risk and should take extra precautions.
India's COVID-19 Trend Over Recent Weeks
India's COVID situation has been fluctuating over the last few weeks. Earlier this month, we reported on West Bengal reporting 71 new cases while the total active cases in India were around 5,364. Kerala consistently remains a hotspot, contributing a large portion of national cases.
To read our full coverage on the last COVID-19 update, including Kerala’s surge, visit: India Sees COVID Spike: Kerala Leads with Over 1,600 Cases.
How Are These Variants Spreading So Fast?
Experts suggest that both XFG and NB.1.8.1 variants are highly transmissible due to their ability to bypass existing immune responses, especially in people who have not had recent booster shots. Public mobility, travel, and reduced adherence to mask-wearing protocols are also factors contributing to the spread.
Interestingly, although the XFG variant originated in Canada, it has now made its way into multiple Indian states. Meanwhile, the NB.1.8.1 variant is being closely monitored due to its dominance in East Asia and increasing global presence.
Precautions Still Matter
While vaccines continue to offer protection against severe illness, the emergence of these new variants is a clear sign that COVID-19 is far from over. People are advised to:
- Wear masks in crowded places
- Get booster vaccinations if eligible
- Stay home if feeling unwell
- Practice hand hygiene regularly
Conclusion
The rise in COVID-19 cases in India is a wake-up call. Although the current variants are less deadly, their rapid transmission poses a risk to vulnerable populations. Continued surveillance, vaccination, and public cooperation are essential to keep the pandemic under control.
For more COVID-related updates, do check out our coverage:
Stay informed. Stay safe.
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