H&FW deptt issues COVID-19 advisory

In view of the new Covid-19 variants detected in the country, Health & Family Welfare (H&FW) department has issued an advisory for preventive measures and necessary information.
The department informed that one case of variant NB.1.8.1 and four cases of variant LF.7 have been reported so far in the country. It said that those reported variants were under observation by the Health inistry of Health & Family Welfare, as Variants under Monitoring (VUMs).
The department stated that those variants have not been classified as dangerous variants yet, but have been linked to rising case numbers in China and parts of Asia. The department, however, said that most common Covid variant remains JN.1 in India.
Further, the department informed that current symptoms of COVID-19 in India in 2025 were observed to be mild and subtle with no associated increase in hospitalization cases.
As per the recent reports published by WHO, the NB.1.8.1 posed a low global health risk. However, the department said some common symptoms have been identified as follows: Low-grade fever or chills; mild sore throat; nasal congestion or runny nose; occasional dry cough; headache and fatigue; gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea in some cases); mild body aches; loss of smell or taste (less common now) and severe shortness of breath (unless underlying issues exist).
In this regard, the department has reiterated the following DOs and DON’Ts.
DOs: Wash your hands regularly with soap for 20 seconds; Wear mask in crowded places, maintain respiratory etiquette; Keep physical distance from others; Stay at home if you have flu like symptoms and consult Healthcare worker and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and clean frequently touched surfaces
DON’Ts: Don’t ignore symptoms or attend gatherings if you’re unwell; avoid close contact with sick people and don’t touch your face with unwashed hands and don’t share personal items like masks or bottles.
The department informed the public to stay informed with trusted sources and follow local health guidelines to keep yourself and others safe.