New COVID Variant XFG Replaces LF.7 as Dominant Strain

AIIMS Bhopal Genomic Analysis

Bhopal June 23. Under the academic leadership and scientific direction of Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director, AIIMS Bhopal, the Regional Virology Laboratory at AIIMS Bhopal has successfully sequenced 44 COVID-19 positive samples collected between the last week of May and the third week of June 2025. These samples were obtained from the districts of Bhopal (n = 14), Gwalior (n = 22), Tikamgarh (n = 2), and one sample each from Indore, Khargon, Chhindwara, Lalitpur, Sidhi, and Gaya. The sequencing results revealed that the XFG variant has now emerged as the predominant strain, being identified in 28 out of 44 samples (63.6%). This variant, which evolved from the previously circulating LF.7 variant, was first detected in the last week of May, gradually increased in prevalence during the first and second weeks of June, and became the only variant detected by the third week of June. In addition to this, a new sub-variant named XFG.3, which has evolved from the XFG lineage, was detected in 5 of the 28 samples positive for the XFG variant. On the other hand, the LF.7 variant, which accounted for 50% of the sequenced samples in the last week of May, progressively declined and completely disappeared by the third week of June. Although both the XFG and LF.7 variants possess mutations that allow them to infect even vaccinated individuals, they have so far caused only mild or asymptomatic infections. As a result, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not listed them as either “Variants of Concern” or “Variants Under Monitoring.” Importantly, the recently reported NB.1 (Nimbus variant), which has been designated as a “Variant Under Monitoring” by the WHO, was not detected in any of the samples sequenced at AIIMS Bhopal.

Speaking on the significance of genomic surveillance, Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh said: “Our Regional Virology Laboratory is working with scientific rigor to ensure that no emerging viral variant goes undetected. The early detection of variants like XFG and its sub-lineages helps us understand the virus’s behavior and take timely precautionary public health measures. Continuous genomic sequencing is not only an academic exercise but a vital pillar of epidemic preparedness and response. AIIMS Bhopal is committed to leading the state’s efforts in this direction.” AIIMS Bhopal strongly emphasizes that routine and continuous genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 should be treated as a priority public health activity in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring regions. This will help ensure early warning, timely intervention, and enhanced preparedness against potential future outbreaks of COVID-19 or emerging variants.

New COVID Variant