A ‘Devious’ new Covid strain has been declared a ‘variant of interest’ due to its rapid spread, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Known as the JN.1 bug, this variant has been detected in multiple countries, including the UK, US, Iceland, Portugal, Spain, and France. Despite its alarming proliferation, experts have emphasized that the risk posed by the strain is currently low. Although the JN.1 variant has not been found to lead to more severe symptoms, it is believed to be more transmissible and capable of making individuals more unwell due to waning immunity.
Health officials have identified JN.1 as an offshoot of the BA.2.86 Omicron variant, which has been named Pirola. While existing vaccines are still effective against severe disease and death caused by JN.1 and other circulating variants, the new strain possesses a mutation not seen in previous versions, potentially increasing its transmissibility. The finding highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the ever-evolving nature of the virus.
Prof Peter Openshaw from Imperial College London pointed out that the new strain could cause severe illness even in young and healthy individuals. He also underscored the importance of booster shots, as waning immunity over time could leave individuals vulnerable to infection.
The rise in Covid cases is not unexpected as the colder weather drives people indoors where transmission is more likely. As a result, the prevalence of JN.1 is rapidly increasing around the world.
While Covid cases are surging, there are other viral infections, such as the flu, that are also circulating. Flu positivity rates in England have notably increased, indicating a potential overlap with Covid cases. Experts warn that those unlucky enough to contract flu or a cold alongside Covid may experience added discomfort.
The latest data reveals a 39 percent increase in Covid cases compared to the previous week. In England, Covid positivity rates reached 7.5 percent for the week ending December 14, up from 6.4 percent the previous week. These statistics reflect the evolving situation and emphasize the importance of adhering to preventive measures such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and vaccination.
It is crucial to stay informed and take precautions to protect oneself and others as new variants emerge. Regular booster shots and adherence to public health guidelines can help mitigate the impact of the rapidly spreading JN.1 variant and other emerging strains. By staying vigilant, individuals can contribute to the collective effort in combating the ongoing global health crisis.
