Know about new COVID-19 variant JN.1

What is JN.1?

The virus is a novel variant of the Omicron subvariant BA.2.86, of SARS-CoV-2. It features an extra mutation on its spike protein. The variant can spread rapidly and evade immunity.

Symptoms

The symptoms of COVID-19 remain consistent across all variants. According to the health agencies, the JN.1 variant may not induce distinct symptoms compared to other variations. The reported symptoms of JN.1 includes–fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and mild gastrointestinal symptoms.

Is it a cause of worry?

The reports have alerted that it lacks information on whether the strain exhibits distinct symptoms from prior coronavirus variants. It is cautioned that JN.1 demonstrates the heightened ability to evade the immune system, heightening concerns about increased transmissibility.

WHO’s Recommendations

In the wake of the surge, the World Health Organisation (WHO) urged the member states to continue with strong surveillance and sequence sharing.

The global body also shared a video of its COVID-19 technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove, who explained the reason for the recent surges and what precautions can be taken.
“Dr @mvankerkhove talks about the current surge in respiratory diseases #COVID19 and JN.1 subvariant. WHO continues to assess the situation. Follow WHO’s public health advice to keep your families and friends safe during this holiday season,” WHO posted on X (formerly Twitter).

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