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The threat of Corona virus (COVID-19) has once again come into discussion. A new Omicron sub-variant of Corona ‘RF.5’ (Omicron RF.5 Sub-lineage) has been confirmed in India. In genome sequencing of samples sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, RF.5 variant has been found in Corona patients from Kadapa (YSR Kadapa) district of Andhra Pradesh. Along with this, monitoring of corona cases has been increased in various states of the country, especially Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Maharashtra. From a health reporter’s perspective, the scary thing is not that a new variant has arrived, but the matter of relief is that experts have not described it as more deadly. RF.5 variant spread in Singapore and South-East Asia The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) are regularly monitoring this new variant: Singapore connection: This new RF.5 sub-variant of Omicron had spread rapidly in Singapore and South-East Asian countries, after which it has also been detected in India during genomic surveillance. Part of the JN.1 family: This new variant is a part of the JN.1 lineage, which has evolved through mutation. How dangerous is the RF.5 variant? According to the Health Department and medical experts, there is absolutely no need for the general public to panic: Infection rate vs severity: Health officials say that although this variant may be able to spread rapidly by dodging the body’s immunity, it is not causing serious illness or hospitalization in patients. Mild symptoms: Most of the people infected with this are recovering in 3 to 5 days with simple medicines at home. Main symptoms of the new RF.5 variant of Corona: If you or anyone in your family is experiencing the following symptoms, take precautions: Sore Throat Mild or high fever Dry or mucus-filled cough Runny or blocked nose Headache and extreme fatigue (Fatigue & Body Aches) Alerts and health department advisories in the states After the cases came to light, Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav has issued an advisory to the health officials. Also held a high level review meeting. Instructions have been given to keep isolation wards and test kits in reserve in all major hospitals: Caution in crowded areas: Patients suffering from respiratory or cold should use masks in public places. Keep in mind the weaker sections: Elderly people, pregnant women and people already suffering from serious diseases (sugar, BP, kidney) should avoid crowding. Testing when symptoms appear: If fever or throat pain persists for more than 3 days, then immediately go to the nearest health center and get a Covid test (RT-PCR).