New Delhi, December 22, 2022 (PPI-OT):There have been three detected cases of the Omicron sub variant BF.7, in India so far, official sources said Wednesday. BF.7 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant BA.5 and has the strongest infection ability since it is highly transmissible, has a shorter incubation period, and a higher capacity to cause re-infection or infect even those who are vaccinated.

The first case of BF.7 in India was detected in October by Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre. So far, two cases have been reported from Gujarat and one from Odisha, officials said. None of these cases are new. According to Gujarat state health department officials said that two BF.7 cases were reported in the state from July-November this year. Both of them were treated at home itself. “These patients were treated in home isolation and have fully recovered,” the official was quoted as saying. Similarly, the case in Odisha was also detected earlier this year and the person has been treated.

In the COVID-19 review meeting chaired by Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday, experts said although there is no overall increase in the caseload as of now, there is a need for continued surveillance to keep a track of existing and emerging variants. The minister asked people to follow COVID-appropriate behaviour, including wearing masks in crowded places and getting vaccinated.

Noting that only 28% of India’s eligible population have taken the COVID-19 booster dose, NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V.K. Paul, after the meeting, said people should take the jab and also wear masks in crowded places.

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