Omicron RF.5 sub-variant of SARS-CoV-2 was detected in Andhra Pradesh in mid-July 2026

Omicron RF.5 sub-variant of SARS-CoV-2 was detected in Andhra Pradesh in mid-July 2026

¨     Omicron RF.5 sub-variant of SARS-CoV-2 was detected in Andhra Pradesh in mid-July 2026.

¨     Genome sequencing at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, confirmed the RF.5 sub-lineage.

¨     The confirmed samples were collected from Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh.

¨     As of 19 July 2026, four positive samples from Kadapa district were identified as the RF.5 sub-variant.

¨     SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19.

¨     Omicron is one of the major variants of SARS-CoV-2 and was first identified in 2021.

¨     RF.5 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant.

¨     It belongs to the JN.1 evolutionary branch through the LF.7 and PY.1.1.1 lineages.

¨     Genome sequencing is a laboratory technique used to read the genetic code of a virus and identify mutations.

¨     Genomic surveillance is the continuous monitoring of virus variants to track their evolution and spread.

¨     The World Health Organization (WHO) monitors new SARS-CoV-2 lineages through routine genomic surveillance.

¨     The National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, is India's leading laboratory for virology research and diagnostic confirmation.