21 new cases of the new variant JN.1, have been reported from across the country, no case has been detected in Delhi so far as no samples have been sent for genome sequencing since July.

Random testing too has not been started, as reported by IndianExpress.

Delhi Health Secretary SB Deepak said: 'Across the country, testing was being done only during pre-screening for surgery etc and Covid findings were incidental. All states have been asked to remain vigilant and test cases with severe respiratory illness.'

However, the health secretary did not share information on the number of Covid tests conducted so far. The last Covid bulletin by the health department was released on July 6 when the number of tests conducted in a day was 828.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said there is no need to panic but to remain cautious.

'JN.1 is a variant of Omicron. It's infectious but mild in nature. The government is ensuring all necessary arrangements such as providing oxygen cylinders, ventilator beds, isolation wards for patients and we are reviewing preparedness. So far, patients who died in other states had comorbid conditions and most are recovering in home isolation. We discussed this variant two weeks back with virologists, pulmonologists and community health experts and directed to increase genome sequencing so we can identify the variant and remain alert.'

Sources from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said Covid positive cases have not been reported in Delhi for a long time. 'We send samples for genome sequencing only when we have positive cases. We are strictly following ICMR guidelines for testing and there's no change in the strategy,' they said.

Hospitals, too, say there have been no cases of late.

At Lok Nayak Hospital, there has been no positive case for the last two months. Medical Director Dr Suresh Kumar said all arrangements have been made to tackle patients. 'We have reviewed oxygen and drugs availability and conducted mock drills to ensure preparedness,' he said.