5 Things We Must Know About The New COVID-19 Variant JN.1

After a pleasing silence of over a year during which Covid-19 was not making headlines, the virus is back in the news again. The World Health Organisation (WHO) classified the JN.1 variant, as a descendant of the BA.2.86 Omicron family. Many parts of India have seen a rise in COVID-19 cases as well, with current active cases at over 4,000. JN.1's continued growth suggests that the variant is either more contagious or better at evading our immune systems than other circulating variants. It is too early to know whether or to what extent JN.1 will cause an increase in infections or hospitalizations," says the Centre for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).

Both the WHO and CDC have said JN.1 doesn't seem to pose a bigger public health risk than other variants, though it could trigger fresh COVID waves at a time when other respiratory viruses are circulating.

Looking at the Indian scenario, a new sub-variant of the coronavirus, named JN.1, has been detected in a woman from Kerala, 79 years old, raising concerns about the ongoing battle against COVID-19. The Indian government confirmed the presence of the JN.1 sub-variant on December 16, marking the first case of its kind in the country. The positive case was identified through routine surveillance in Thiruvananthapuram on December 8. The woman had mild symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) but has since recovered from COVID-19. The sub-variant of JN.1, was first identified in Luxembourg, one of the European countries.

What's new in the COVID-19 virus JN.1?

JN.1 is a novel variant of the Omicron sub-variant BA.2.86, characterised by an additional mutation on its spike protein. This variant has the potential to spread rapidly and evade immunity, emphasising the need for continuous monitoring and caution.

Symptoms of Covid's JN.1

The symptoms of COVID-19 subvariant JN.1 are similar to those of other Omicron subvariants and generally include:

• Fever: This is the most common symptom, and can range from a low-grade fever to a high fever.

• Runny nose or nasal congestion: This is another common symptom, and can be accompanied by sneezing and a sore throat.

• Sore throat: This can be a scratchy sore throat or a burning sensation.

• Cough: This can be a dry cough or a productive cough with mucus.

• Headache: This can be a mild headache or a more severe headache.

• Muscle or body aches: This can be a general feeling of achiness or more specific pain in certain muscles.

• Fatigue: This can range from feeling tired to feeling completely exhausted.

• Loss of taste or smell: This is less common than some of the other symptoms, but it can still occur.

In some cases, JN.1 may also cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to get tested for COVID-19. Even if you have been vaccinated, it is still possible to get infected with JN.1. In the latest statement on the virulency of the new COVID variant, JN.1, the global health body WHO (World Health Organisation), said that the symptoms of the JN.1 new Covid variant are mostly mild to moderate.

5 Facts to Know About Covid-19 JN.1

1. Increased Transmissibility, Not Necessarily Severity

Covid-19 JN.1 is more transmissible than previous variants, potentially due to mutations in its spike protein. This means it can spread more easily from person to person. However, there’s no evidence that JN.1 causes more severe illness than other variants.

2. Symptoms Remain Familiar

Symptoms associated with COVID-19 JN.1 are similar to those of other COVID-19 strains, including fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue. In some cases, mild gastrointestinal issues might also occur.

3. Vaccination and Boosters Still Effective

The good news is that existing COVID-19 vaccines, especially with booster shots, offer significant protection against COVID-19 JN.1, reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and death. Staying up-to-date with your vaccinations remains crucial.

4. Precaution is Key, Panic is Not

While Covid-19 JN.1’s increased transmissibility warrants caution, there’s no need to panic. We can effectively manage the situation by following established safety measures:

• Wearing masks in crowded indoor settings and on public transport.

• Maintaining social distancing whenever possible.

• Practising frequent handwashing and sanitization.

• Stay home if you experience any symptoms and get tested.

5. Stay Informed and Avoid Misinformation

It’s essential to rely on credible sources for updates on JN.1, such as official health authorities and reputable news outlets. Be wary of Misinformation circulating online and avoid sharing unverified claims. Remember, knowledge is power in the fight against COVID-19 variant JN.1. Understanding JN.1 Covid 19 variant and taking appropriate precautions can protect ourselves and our communities while avoiding unnecessary anxiety. By staying informed, acting responsibly, and focusing on personal well-being, we can navigate the COVID-19 JN.1 challenge with resilience and a healthy dose of precaution.

Authored by Dr. Apurrva Sawant: Preventive Healthcare Expert and Founder of Careport Private Limited