The Omicron RF.5 sub-lineage was detected in Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh in mid‑July 2026; genome sequencing at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune confirmed four RF.5‑positive samples (as of 19 July 2026).
Detection & Lineage
- RF.5: Pango-designated sub-lineage of Omicron; placed on the JN.1 evolutionary branch via LF.7 and PY.1.1.1.
- Local detection: Four positive samples from Kadapa district confirmed by NIV Pune sequencing in mid‑July 2026.
Genomic Surveillance
- Sequencing role: Genome sequencing identifies lineage‑defining mutations in viral RNA.
- Indian network: INSACOG coordinates national SARS‑CoV‑2 genomic surveillance; state samples are routed to designated labs such as NIV.
- International systems: Pango provides lineage names (e.g., RF.5); WHO classifies variants as VOC/VOI/VUM and monitors emerging sub‑lineages.
Epidemiology & Clinical Features
- Reported caseload: Andhra Pradesh recorded 19 COVID‑19 cases between 26 June and 19 July 2026; four recent deaths involved severe comorbidities.
- Clinical presentation: Reported symptoms include sore throat, cough, fever, nasal congestion, headache, fatigue and myalgia.
- Severity signal: No current evidence of increased clinical severity for RF.5 compared with earlier Omicron sub‑lineages.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- NIV Pune: ICMR virology institute and a WHO collaborating centre for arboviruses and haemorrhagic fever diagnostics.
- INSACOG: Established 2020 to expand sequencing capacity and inform public‑health response.
- Pango lineage: Dynamic nomenclature used globally to track SARS‑CoV‑2 evolution and transmission chains.