It is known that the BF.7 strain of the Omicron Covid variant (also known as the BA.5.2.1.7 variant) is spooking China. The exponential rise in cases there is because of the highly transmissible strain.

Some experts believe that the strain may not result in the fourth wave in India even if there is an increase in Covid-19 cases. They believe that Indians are naturally immunized because of three previous waves. Then there is the benefit of effective vaccines, namely, Covishield and Covaxin. About 88% of Indians are vaccinated with two doses and 28% with three doses.

Indians were exposed to the Omicron variant during the third wave. This natural immunity is where the Chinese population was lagging till before the present wave.

This is not to say that there won't be a rise in cases in India. As per most experts, India will witness a spike in cases by the end of January. But the number is going to be too small to warrant a panic-stricken full lockdown. Some state governments might impose night curfews, which were proved to be pointless during the first three waves.