For the first time, a Covid-19 sample from Telangana has tested positive for the XFG sub-variant, according to genome sequencing data released by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG). This new sub-lineage, along with another variant called LF.7.9, was found in samples recently submitted by the state for testing.
Of the five samples analyzed, four (from two men and two women) were found to carry the LF.7.9 variant, while one male sample tested positive for the XFG strain. Dr. Kiran Madala, Covid-19 researcher and co-chairman of IMA Telangana’s public relations and social media committee, confirmed the findings and said both sequences have been uploaded to INSACOG’s portal.
Both XFG and LF.7.9 are offshoots of the Omicron variant and trace their origins to the JN.1 strain, which was responsible for a global surge in cases in late 2023 and early 2024. These two sub-variants are now among the most frequently observed across India. As of the latest data, there are 172 identified cases of XFG and 82 of LF.7.9 nationally.
With this development, Telangana joins other states such as Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal, where XFG has already been reported. Despite the emergence of new variants, there are currently only nine active Covid cases in Telangana, down from 10 the previous day, according to the Union Health Ministry dashboard.
Dr. Kiran noted that while studies are still ongoing regarding the transmission potential and severity of XFG, LF.7.9, and XFJ, these variants appear to be causing only mild symptoms. The World Health Organization (WHO), which is tracking eight new sub-variants globally, has not yet issued any specific warnings related to XFG.
“Covid-19 has become endemic, and most infections are not severe,” Dr. Kiran said. However, he advised people with weakened immunity, multiple comorbidities, or those over 70 to remain vigilant. According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data, Covid-19 currently accounts for 66% of all respiratory infections in India, but hospitalization rates remain low.
Dr. Ravinder Nayak, Director of Public Health and Family Welfare in Telangana, emphasized that the emergence of new variants is part of the virus’s natural progression. “There is no cause for alarm,” he stated, noting that these variants have not shown any concerning clinical impact so far.