Archive · 19 Jul 2026
NIV Confirms Omicron RF.5 Variant in AP
The National Institute of Virology in Pune found that four Covid-19 patients in Andhra Pradesh had a new version of the Omicron virus called RF.5.
The health minister said there's no need to worry, as this version has been seen in other countries and isn't a big threat.
The government is preparing hospitals and getting testing kits ready just in case more people get sick.
So far, there have been 12 Covid-19 cases in the state up to July 16.
NIV confirmed Omicron sub-lineage RF.5 in four Covid-19 samples from Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh.
Health officials ruled out major public health concerns, stating RF.5 has been reported in Southeast Asia.
Andhra Pradesh reported 12 Covid-19 cases up to July 16.
Government is setting up special wards and procuring testing kits to prepare for potential case rise.
Public advised not to panic as the variant does not pose significant health risks.
- Who
- National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune and Andhra Pradesh Health Department
- What
- Confirmation of Omicron sub-lineage RF.5 variant in Andhra Pradesh
- When
- Report confirmed on Saturday (date not specified)
- Where
- Andhra Pradesh, India (specifically Kadapa district)
- Why
- To monitor and manage potential rise in Covid-19 cases
- Variant
- Omicron sub-lineage RF.5
- Location
- Andhra Pradesh, India
- Samples Tested
- 4
- Reporting Authority
- National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune
- Public Health Concern
- Ruling out major concern
- Government Response
- Setting up special wards, procuring testing kits
- Total Covid-19 Cases (as of July 16)
- 12