The new Covid variant JN.1 has been identified in Kerala, India, and it has been causing a spike in cases in the United States since September. The variant, which is a descendant of the BA.2.86 variant, has a single mutation in the spike protein compared to Pirola. The Union health ministry in India has detected around 15 cases of the JN.1 variant in samples from Goa during routine surveillance.
The health authorities in India are closely monitoring the situation, and the Union health ministry has urged states to enhance Covid surveillance to prevent the spread of the variant. While it is not yet clear whether the JN.1 variant is a cause for significant concern, experts suggest that variants like these may be more transmissible or potentially better at evading immune responses.
Given the increase in infection numbers in India, with approximately 252 new infections reported across the country in the week ending December 17, concerns have risen. This marks a significant jump from 125 cases reported a week earlier and 59 cases reported the week before that. The rise in infections underscores the importance of monitoring and responding to emerging variants to control the spread of the virus and protect public health.
“The emergence of Covid’s JN.1 variant has heightened global concern. This virus is a subvariant of BA.2.86 and was initially detected in Kerala, India, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Kerala’s case was diagnosed through genome sequencing, with no reported hospitalizations or severe illnesses thus far, alleviating immediate worry. The situation is under close monitoring,” states Dr RR Dutta, HOD Internal Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has entered its fourth calendar year, and the virus continues to circulate in the form of newer variants of concern that demand vigilant surveillance. The latest iteration causing growing worry across parts of India is the JN.1 variant which descends from the Omicron XBB subvariant. While the current JN.1 variant may seem to cause only minor symptoms like runny noses, sore throats, and dry coughs, we must not underestimate its potential threat. It is essential to stay informed about the situation and be alert to key warning signs,” states Dr Nikhil Modi, Senior Consultant, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.
Signs and symptoms of JN.1 variant:
“There is an increase in Covid-19 cases recently which suggests that there is a new variant that has emerged. It could be JN.1 variant which is a highly immune evasive variant. So far, most cases have been very mild. Symptoms are fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, body ache and fatigue. These symptoms are not distinguishable from other respiratory illnesses like flu. If patient has these symptoms and they are mild just symptomatic care is enough. Red flag sign is breathlessness. The risk factors for severe disease are in the elderly and the immunocompromised,” says Dr Tanu Singhal, Consultant, Paediatrics And Infectious Disease, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Mumbai.
“Characterized by increased transmissibility, its symptoms overlap with other viral infections, including fever, cough, runny nose, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, mild gastrointestinal symptoms, and loss of taste or smell. These symptoms may resemble other upper respiratory infections caused by seasonal viruses. Crucial preventive measures include vaccination, mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and social distancing. Understanding its contagious nature underscores the urgency for adhering to safety protocols,” states Dr Dutta.
The reported symptoms associated with the JN.1 variant of the Covid-19 virus include:
1. Cough:
Persistent coughing is mentioned as a common symptom.
2. Cold:
Symptoms resembling a common cold, such as a runny or stuffy nose, may be observed.
3. Throat pain:
Sore throat or discomfort in the throat is reported.
4. Headache:
Individuals infected with the JN.1 variant may experience headaches.
5. Loose motions:
Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as loose motions (diarrhoea), may occur.
6. Mild breathlessness:
Some individuals may experience occasional mild breathlessness.
“Early detection and prompt isolation are our best tools in this ongoing fight. If you have any of these concerning symptoms, isolating yourself and getting tested is of utmost importance. Ignoring them as a simple cold could have serious consequences, not just for yourself but also for vulnerable individuals within our communities. Moreover, in crowded places or situations where maintaining physical distance is difficult, wearing a mask responsibly remains a powerful way to protect yourself and others,” states Dr Modi.
“Vaccination remains our most effective defense against the virus. For those eligible for booster doses, don’t delay in getting them. These additional layers of protection can significantly reduce the severity of illness, even if you get infected,” attaches Dr Modi.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
