A total of three cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7, which has led to the massive surge in China, have been found in India so far, a source said on 21 Dec.

After the first case of BF.7 was detected in October by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre, another case was also reported in the same month and the third case of this variant was detected in November, according to the source.

Meanwhile, Union Health Minister on 21 Dec chaired a high-level meeting to review the COVID-19 situation in India and the preparedness of the public health system for its surveillance, containment and management, in view of the recent spike in cases of COVID-19 in some countries along with MoS Health Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar, NITI Aayog's Member, Health, Dr V.K. Paul and other senior officials.

Union Health Minister directed the strengthening of the surveillance system for whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) network to ensure timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country. This would facilitate the undertaking of appropriate public health measures.

States/UTs have been requested to send samples of all COVID-19-positive cases to INSACOG Genome Sequencing Laboratories (IGSLs) on a daily basis, for sequencing, to track new variants, if any.

Underlying and reiterating that COVID is not over yet, he directed the officials to be fully geared up and strengthen surveillance. He urged people to follow COVID Appropriate Behaviour and get vaccinated against COVID.