New Omicron sub-variants of COVID-19 found in India - China.org.cn

As India records a downward spiral in daily COVID-19 caseload, two new sub-variants of Omicron BF.7 and BQ.1 have been detected in the South Asian country, local media reported Tuesday.

"Maharashtra has reported cases from other sub-variants of Omicron -- BA.2.3.20 and BQ.1 variant, which was detected for the first time in India on Monday from the sample of a patient in Pune," a report said.

The BQ.1 is a descendant of BA.5. Sub-variant BF.7 was detected by Gujarat Biotechnology Research Center on Oct. 14.

In the southwestern state of Maharashtra, XBB, another sub-variant of the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus, has also been reported. The sub-variant was earlier detected in southern Kerala.

XBB, a recombinant lineage between two Omicron sublineages, BJ.1 and BA.2.75, is a fast-spreading variant.

Health experts predict a rise in the coming winter season in the state, especially in a festive environment. Maharashtra's health department and experts have asked people not to ignore flu-like symptoms and seek medical advice at the earliest.