NEW DELHI: Despite a downward trend in new Covid cases, a new subtype of Omicron is now posing a threat to the nation.
According to certain accounts, the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Center has discovered the first case of BF.7. Also, this novel Omicron type is considered to be more contagious and transmittable.
After originating from a part of Mongolia in China, the Omicron sub-variants BA.5.1.7 and BF.7 are now spreading to other areas and creating new risks.
Omicron variants BF.7 and BA.5.1.7 are reportedly responsible for the recent increase in Covid-19 cases in China. Before the impending holiday season, authorities have suggested prudence and sensible behaviour.
The nation's active caseload, which represents 0.6 percent of all positive cases in the nation, is now at 26,834 cases.
India's weekly positivity rate is currently at 1.02 percent as of Monday, compared to the country's reported daily positivity rate of 1.86 percent.
The Union Health Ministry said on Monday morning that 2,060 new Covid cases had been discovered in the preceding 24 hours, compared to 2,401 instances that had been recorded the day before.
Prior to the forthcoming 5-day holiday of Diwali, which will begin on Dhanteras, October 22, it is critical to take precautions given the introduction of these new sub-variants that can outperform immunity. According to two studies, BF.7 can evade the antibodies from prior diseases or immunizations better than the numerous other omicron sub-variants.
Â