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India has recorded 324 cases of new COVID-19 sub-variants KP.1 and KP.2, linked to a surge in cases in Singapore. These variants, which are offshoots of the Omicron variant JN.1, include 290 cases of KP.2 and 34 cases of KP.1, according to data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).
Current Situation in India
Maharashtra leads with 148 cases of KP.2, while other states reporting KP.2 include West Bengal (36), Gujarat (23), Rajasthan (21), Uttarakhand (16), Odisha (17), Goa (12), Uttar Pradesh (8), Karnataka (4), Haryana (3), and one case each in Madhya Pradesh and Delhi.
For KP.1, 34 cases have been detected across seven states and Union Territories, with West Bengal accounting for 23 of these cases. Other states with KP.1 cases are Maharashtra (4), Rajasthan (2), Gujarat (2), and one each in Goa, Haryana, and Uttarakhand.
INSACOG emphasizes that there is no associated increase in hospitalizations or severe cases due to these variants, suggesting no immediate cause for concern or panic. The consortium continuously monitors the emergence of new variants and collects samples from hospitals to assess any changes in disease severity.
Singapore is currently experiencing a significant rise in COVID-19 cases, with a reported 25,900 infections from May 5 to 11, nearly doubling the previous week’s count. The Singaporean government has reintroduced mask mandates in response to this surge.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) identifies JN.1 and its sub-lineages, including KP.1 and KP.2, as predominant variants. The WHO has designated KP.2 as a Variant Under Monitoring.
While the emergence of KP.1 and KP.2 variants in India is noteworthy, experts advise that there is no significant threat to public health at this time. The natural mutation of viruses like SARS-CoV-2 is expected, and ongoing monitoring and research are essential to stay ahead of potential risks.
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