The steep rise in the new JN.1 sub-variant of the Covid-19 virus has caught the attention of governments and healthcare authorities around the world, including in India. However, experts are advising the public not to panic as this new variant is not causing severe infections or hospitalizations at the moment.
The JN.1 sub-variant, which belongs to the lineage of the Omicron variant, is highly transmissible and spreads rapidly. Its symptoms are similar to those seen in previous variants, including fever, cough, cold, sore throat, and body aches.
In India, there are currently 3,742 active cases of Covid-19. The country recorded 752 new infections in a single day last week. So far, 22 cases of the JN.1 variant have been detected, resulting in four deaths, with two in Kerala, one in Rajasthan, and one in Karnataka.
The JN.1 sub-variant is derived from the BA.2.86 lineage and carries an additional L455S mutation in the spike protein. Experts report that the severity of infections caused by JN.1 is similar to previous cases of the Omicron variant, with most symptoms limited to upper respiratory tract infections. So far, no serious symptoms have been reported.
Experts emphasize that there is no need to panic and attribute the current surge in cases to the increase in transmission of respiratory viruses during the winter season. They point out that most of the reported cases are mild in nature.
The JN.1 variant, first detected in Luxembourg in August, is currently present in around 41 countries. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a separate variant of interest (VOI) from its parent lineage, BA.2.86. The WHO warns that JN.1 could contribute to the burden of respiratory infections in many countries.
Globally, the number of new Covid-19 cases has risen by 52 percent in the past month. CDC estimates reveal that JN.1 now accounts for 44 percent of cases in the United States. In the latest update, the WHO reported over 850,000 new cases worldwide between November 20 and December 17, with a decrease of 8 percent in new deaths compared to the previous 28-day period. To date, over 772 million confirmed cases and nearly seven million deaths have been reported globally.
Doctors emphasize that individuals with pre-existing conditions such as COPD, asthma, and heart disease are at a higher risk of developing severe Covid-19 symptoms.
With JN.1 on the rise, it is crucial for the public to stay informed and follow safety guidelines. While this new sub-variant is more transmissible, it is not causing severe illness or hospitalizations. By adhering to preventive measures and taking necessary precautions, individuals can help mitigate the spread of the virus.
In conclusion, experts advise against panic as the JN.1 sub-variant of Covid-19 spreads globally. Although it is more transmissible, it does not cause severe infections or hospitalizations. By staying vigilant and following safety protocols, individuals can contribute to reducing the transmission of the virus.
