Official Confirmation and Prevalence
Malaysia's Health Ministry has officially confirmed the detection of the new XFG Covid-19 variant within the country. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad announced on September 19, 2025, that the XFG variant was identified through genomic surveillance. This new variant accounts for 8.2% of the 43,087 cumulative cases reported during Epidemiological Week (EW) 35/2025.
Despite the emergence of XFG, Malaysia has observed a significant decline in overall Covid-19 cases. The total number of cases in EW35/2025 represents a 49.5% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. Weekly cases in EW35 also saw a 12.8% reduction, with 594 cases reported compared to 681 in EW34.
WHO Monitoring and Variant Characteristics
The World Health Organization (WHO) designated the XFG variant as a 'variant under monitoring' (VUM) on June 25, 2025. This classification is due to its noted high transmissibility and increased ability to evade immunity. XFG is a recombinant sub-variant of Omicron, originating from the LF.7 and LP.8.1.2 strains, and was initially detected in Canada.
Globally, XFG has shown rapid spread, with reports indicating its presence in numerous countries, including the United States and across Southeast Asia. In Singapore, XFG was first detected in April and became the predominant strain by the week of September 7 to 13, 2025.
Severity and Public Health Response
Crucially, current data does not suggest that the XFG variant leads to more severe illness or increased mortality compared to other circulating variants. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the XFG subvariant of Omicron 'does not present significant virulence concerns,' with only one death recorded in EW35 involving a 91-year-old bedridden individual. Approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against XFG, particularly in protecting against symptomatic and severe disease.
The Malaysian Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely through genomic surveillance. Officials have urged the public to maintain vigilance, especially those in at-risk groups. Recommended preventive measures include frequent handwashing, wearing face masks when symptomatic or in crowded areas, and getting vaccinated.
7 Comments
Bermudez
It's good that XFG isn't causing more severe illness, but its rapid spread globally and high transmissibility suggest it could still overwhelm healthcare systems if case numbers surge too high.
Muchacho
Finally, some positive trends in the numbers. We can manage this if we stay smart.
Africa
While it's encouraging that overall cases are down, the emergence of a new variant like XFG, even if not more severe, still requires caution, especially for vulnerable populations.
Habibi
Good to hear XFG isn't causing more severe illness. That's a huge relief!
ZmeeLove
The decline in total cases is positive, but the fact that XFG is highly transmissible and can evade immunity means we can't let our guard down completely. Continued vigilance is crucial.
Muchacho
A new variant means more restrictions are inevitable. Brace yourselves for the next wave.
Africa
High transmissibility and immune evasion are still major concerns, regardless of initial severity claims.