Tue May 27 19:04:12 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Karnataka Monitors COVID-19: Omicron Sub-Lineages in Circulation, No Need for Panic**
**CHENNAI, May 28, 2025** – Health officials in Karnataka are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation in the state, reporting approximately 10-15 new cases per day. According to Dr. T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, whole genome sequencing (WGS) has confirmed that the current infections are caused by existing Omicron sub-lineages.
“The strains currently in circulation are of Omicron and its sub-variants,” Dr. Selvavinayagam stated in a video message, reassuring the public that these infections are non-virulent. “It is a simple respiratory tract infection. The symptoms are the same and are not severe in nature. So, we may not experience any challenges.”
WGS analysis of 26 samples, conducted at the National Institute of Virology, Pune, revealed the presence of Omicron descendant variants including JN.1.16.1, LF.7.9, and LF.7.1.2, along with one case of the NB.1.8.1 variant. The Director emphasized that no new or virulent strains of COVID-19 have been detected.
Dr. Selvavinayagam reiterated that there is no reason for panic, but stressed the importance of vigilance. Individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, especially those with co-morbidities or the elderly, should seek immediate medical attention. He also urged the public to maintain good hand hygiene and practice proper cough etiquette.
“We should be vigilant. There is no need for panic and no need for any additional restrictions in this situation,” he said. The State government has adequate health infrastructure.
First Piper 