By A fresh wave of COVID-19 infections is sweeping across several Asian nations, driven by newer, more infectious variants of the virus. Countries including Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and China are witnessing a sharp spike in reported cases, although the severity remains generally mild. In India, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, with current conditions deemed under control.
Variants Behind the Surge: LF.7 and NB.1.8
The latest uptick in COVID-19 numbers is primarily attributed to two new variants—LF.7 and NB.1.8, both descendants of the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron. These emerging strains are believed to have evolved to be more transmissible and capable of partially evading immune protection, leading to more infections even in previously vaccinated populations.
Health experts caution that while these variants are smarter in terms of immune escape, there is no significant increase in hospitalization or mortality rates. “These are mostly upper respiratory infections with flu-like symptoms,” confirmed Dr. Nihar Parekh, a leading Mumbai-based pediatrician. “There’s no need for panic, but heightened awareness is crucial.”
Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong on Alert
Singapore is among the worst-hit in the current wave, reporting approximately 14,200 cases between April 27 and May 3, up from 11,000 in the previous week. The Ministry of Health attributes this rise to waning immunity and lack of booster doses, with many infected individuals not having received an additional vaccine shot in over a year.
Thailand is facing a similar surge, recording over 33,000 cases in the same week. The XCC sub-variant of Omicron is the predominant strain circulating in the country, triggering a widespread increase in mild to moderate infections.
In Hong Kong, the test positivity rate has more than doubled, rising from 6.21% to 13.66% in just four weeks, reflecting a rapid spread of the virus in the population. Meanwhile, China is seeing a high positivity rate among patients with flu-like symptoms visiting hospitals, although official case numbers remain limited due to underreporting and reduced testing.
India: Under Control, But Caution Advised
In contrast, India’s situation remains under control, with the JN.1 variant being the dominant strain. Health authorities are maintaining surveillance across the country, and so far, there are no indications of a significant spike in infections or hospitalizations.
Dr. Rahul Pandit, Chair of Critical Care at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, credited India’s relatively stable condition to widespread natural immunity and a successful vaccination campaign. “After the 2022 Omicron wave, many Indians have developed hybrid immunity—through both infection and vaccination. As a result, the virus is no longer causing severe illness for most,” he said.
However, he emphasized the importance of continued genome sequencing and monitoring of emerging variants to avoid complacency.
What Are LF.7 and NB.1.8?
While LF.7 and NB.1.8 share a lineage with JN.1, they exhibit subtle yet impactful mutations in the spike protein, which may enhance their transmissibility and immune evasion capabilities. Detailed studies are ongoing, but early indications suggest that these variants can more effectively spread, particularly in populations with declining immunity.
Also in the spotlight is BA.2.86, a heavily mutated predecessor first detected in August 2023. Though it did not spread widely, its offshoot JN.1 proved to be more efficient, and its descendants—LF.7 and NB.1.8—are now contributing to the current surge.
According to Yale Medicine, some of these mutations may even render the virus more difficult to detect in routine tests, further complicating tracking efforts.
Should You Get a Booster?
Experts recommend considering a booster dose, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, people with comorbidities, or those who haven’t received a vaccine in over a year. The World Health Organization has affirmed that existing vaccines continue to protect against severe disease, even against newer sub-variants like JN.1 and its descendants.
“Vaccines might not prevent infection entirely, but they significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization and complications,” said Dr. Parekh.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Common symptoms associated with the current variants include:
- Fever
- Body aches
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Conjunctivitis (in some cases)
- Loose motions
Most people recover in a few days, and hospitalization remains rare.
No Need to Panic, Just Stay Alert
While the specter of 2021’s devastating Delta wave still looms in public memory, medical experts emphasize that the virus has since mutated to milder forms. Nevertheless, new strains continue to evolve, and a lax attitude could lead to unanticipated complications.
The message from health officials is clear: stay informed, practice basic hygiene, wear masks in crowded places if necessary, and consult your doctor about a booster dose.
With summer travel and gatherings on the rise, health authorities are urging people not to drop their guard. Though the world is no longer in a pandemic emergency, COVID-19 remains an active health risk that must be managed with awareness and responsibility.
