COVID-19 in 2025: What You Need to Know About New Variants, and Tests

As we step into mid-2025, COVID-19 remains a public health concern with new sub-variants emerging in multiple regions of India. While we’ve moved past the peak of the pandemic, testing, early detection, and local accessibility remain crucial – especially for vulnerable individuals, frequent travelers, and those with flu-like symptoms.

At Dr. Tayade’s Pathlab, we continue to offer WHO-recommended COVID testing panels with rapid turnaround times, right here in your neighborhood.

Why Are COVID Tests Still Relevant in 2025?

Although mass testing has decreased, here’s why diagnostics still matter:

  • New Omicron-derived variants are under surveillance globally and can cause mild but fast-spreading infections.
  • Immunity wanes over time, especially for those who haven’t received a booster in the past 12 months.
  • Symptoms now mimic seasonal flu, making lab confirmation essential for timely treatment and isolation.
  • International travelers often still require a negative RT-PCR report depending on destination.

What Are the Common Symptoms in 2025?

Current sub-variants often present with:

  • Mild fever and fatigue
  • Runny nose and sneezing
  • Sore throat and dry cough
  • Body ache and headache
  • Occasional shortness of breath in vulnerable groups

While these symptoms may resemble a regular cold, testing is the only way to confirm whether it’s COVID or something else.

Which COVID-19 Tests Should You Consider?

Dr. Tayade’s Pathlab offers the following COVID testing options:

RT-PCR Test

Still the gold standard for confirmation. Detects viral RNA and helps identify specific variants through genomic sequencing.

  • Ideal for: Symptomatic individuals, pre-travel testing, and post-exposure testing.

Rapid Antigen Test

Quick and accessible, detects active infection. May give false negatives in early infection.

  • Ideal for: Home-based testing, workplaces, and schools.

COVID Antibody Test (IgG)

Detects past exposure or vaccine-triggered immunity.

  • Ideal for: People curious about their immunity levels post-infection or vaccination.

Who Should Get Tested in 2025?

  • Individuals with cold-like symptoms that persist beyond 2–3 days
  • People in close contact with confirmed COVID cases
  • Healthcare workers, teachers, and frontline staff
  • Elderly individuals or those with chronic conditions
  • Travelers to countries or events requiring test reports

COVID Testing Near You at Dr. Tayade’s Pathlab

Searching for “COVID test near me”? Here’s why Dr. Tayade’s Pathlab is better than relying on over-the-counter kits:

  • Faster reporting with assured accuracy
  • Sample collection at home available
  • Trusted by customers across Pimpri-Chinchwad
  • Multiple Health packages and easy access to online reports
  • Option for follow-up consultation in case of positive result

Our facility in Wakad-Dange Chowk serves as the central reference lab, with partner centers across Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pune, ensuring same-day testing and reporting.

How to Book a COVID Test at Dr. Tayade’s Pathlab?

Reports are shared securely via WhatsApp and email within 12-24 hours.

Final Word

COVID-19 may no longer dominate headlines, but it hasn’t disappeared. With newer variants circulating, knowing when and where to test remains your first line of defense – for your health and for those around you.

If you’re feeling unwell, planning to travel, or have been exposed to someone with COVID, don’t wait – get tested today.

Book your COVID-19 test with Dr. Tayade’s Pathlab and stay informed, stay safe.