OF.7 & NB.1.8 Subvariants in India

As India witnesses a fresh COVID surge in May 2025, SSC aspirants and general readers alike must stay updated on key developments, especially in public health.

A new rise in COVID-19 cases is linked to the emergence of OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants—descendants of the JN.1 COVID lineage, a branch of the Omicron variant.

These subvariants have shown increased transmissibility, sparking concerns not just in India but globally.

What Are OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID Subvariants?

The OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants are fast-spreading descendants of the JN.1 variant.

These belong to the broader Omicron subvariant family but exhibit distinct features such as higher transmissibility and milder symptoms, especially in vaccinated individuals.

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified another JN.1 descendant, IN.1, as a “variant of interest.” While not officially labeled as “variants of concern,” OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants are under global observation due to their growing impact.

Latest COVID Spike in India: Why It Matters

Following trends in Singapore and Hong Kong—where COVID-19 test positivity rates rose sharply—India too is witnessing a rise in cases. Cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Ahmedabad have reported noticeable jumps.

For instance, Mumbai recorded 95 new COVID cases in May 2025, while the entire state of Maharashtra recorded only 106 between January and April.

This latest COVID spike in India is linked directly to the OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants, a reflection of both a seasonal rise in COVID cases and waning immunity after COVID infection and vaccination.

Symptoms of OF.7 and NB.1.8: Mild but Widespread

The Omicron subvariant symptoms associated with OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants include

• Sore throat

• Mild cough

• Fatigue

• Fever

There have been no reports of taste or smell loss with these subvariants, in contrast to earlier strains like Delta. While these are mostly mild COVID cases in India, experts warn that high-risk groups must remain alert.

Why Are These Subvariants Spreading So Fast?

Several factors explain the rapid spread of the OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants, including

• Waning immunity after COVID infection or vaccination

• Reduced vaccine protection against evolving variants

• Increased travel, public gatherings, and social mixing

• Relaxation in mask use and hygiene practices

• Seasonal effects supporting higher transmission

In Singapore, cases rose by 28% in one week. Hong Kong’s COVID-19 test positivity rate jumped from 6.21% to 13.66% over four weeks—clear evidence of the global impact of these fast-spreading COVID variant symptoms.

Is COVID still a threat in India in 2025?

Absolutely. Though milder than before, COVID-19 is still circulating as an endemic illness. The emergence of OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants answers the key question: "Is COVID still a threat in India in 2025?"

Indeed—particularly because of their increased transmissibility and resistance to prior immunization.

With reduced public concern and limited preventive behavior, these subvariants can still cause significant health disruptions.

Latest COVID Guidelines India May 2025

The latest COVID guidelines in India, May 2025, stress renewed caution, especially for vulnerable groups. The Ministry of Health recommends

• Get your booster vaccine for new COVID variants

• Follow mask guidelines for COVID-2025 in crowded or indoor areas

• Maintain good hand hygiene

• Avoid contact with sick individuals

• Stay home when feeling unwell

• Monitor updates from health authorities regularly

These guidelines are crucial to contain the spread of OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants in densely populated urban areas.

Booster Dose for New Variants: Why It’s Critical

The booster dose for new variants plays a critical role in mitigating severe disease outcomes. As OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants evolve, high-risk individuals are advised to prioritize booster shots.

These include:

• The elderly

• Pregnant women

• People with chronic illnesses

• Immunocompromised individuals

Vaccination remains our strongest defense against severe illness, even as newer variants continue to circulate.

How to Protect from COVID New Variants?

To shield yourself from the OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants, return to the COVID basics:

• Get vaccinated and boosted regularly

• Wear masks in high-risk or indoor environments

• Wash hands and use sanitizer frequently

• Avoid crowded gatherings

• Stay informed through reliable health sources

These steps are essential in reducing your risk and minimizing community spread of OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants.

Summary for SSC Aspirants

Understanding the emergence of OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants is not just general awareness—it’s part of your SSC current affairs preparation.

These subvariants bring together topics from health, science, and government response, all commonly asked in exams.

Key takeaways:

• OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants stem from the JN.1 COVID lineage

• Responsible for the new COVID variants in India 2025

• Present mild symptoms but with high transmissibility

• Booster vaccines and updated precautions are crucial

• Part of ongoing COVID awareness and preparedness in 2025

Final Thoughts

While the pandemic phase may be over, the rise of OF.7 and NB.1.8 COVID subvariants reminds us that COVID-19 is far from irrelevant.

As new waves appear and immunity fades, staying informed and alert remains essential—for both public health and exam readiness.

For SSC aspirants, this isn't just news—it's preparation, awareness, and responsible citizenship in action.