India has crossed 7,000 active COVID-19 cases, with Kerala reporting the highest spike and three new deaths. The XFG variant, a sub-lineage of Omicron with strong immune evasion, has been detected across the country, raising global alarm. Originating in Canada, the variant carries four spike protein mutations. Globally, SARS-CoV-2 activity is rising, especially in South-East Asia and Eastern Mediterranean regions, with test positivity rates matching last year’s peak. WHO continues to monitor the spread amid poor ICU and hospitalization data from heavily affected regions.
