The JN.1 Covid variant has reportedly made its way to India, with 2669 new active cases reported within 24 hours on Thursday. The Union Health Ministry has noted a surge in Covid cases in Kerala, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Karnataka. On Thursday, India reported 594 new COVID-19 cases, causing the active case count to rise from 2,311 to 2,669, as per data from the Union Health Ministry.
Experts suggest that the global rise in cases indicates that JN.1, an Omicron sub-lineage, possesses a high immune escape ability, potentially enabling it to out other variants. Due to its rapid spread, the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a “variant of interest” (VOI), distinguishing it from the parent lineage BA.2.86. The US Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has labeled it the fastest-growing variant in the United States. In India, 21 cases of the COVID-19 sub-variant have been identified, prompting concerns about its potential for quick transmission, although there is no need for panic.
On Wednesday, NITI Aayog member VK Paul conveyed that based on current scientific evidence, JN.1 appears to induce mild symptoms, and there is no need for alarm. He emphasised that approximately 91-92% of Covid-19 patients experience only mild symptoms, recovering at home without severe complications. The JN.1 (BA.2.86.1.1) variant surfaced in late 2023 and is a progeny of the BA.2.86 lineage (Pirola) within the coronavirus.
The variant is highly contagious and adept at evading the body’s immune defences compared to the original strain, as noted by the CDC. However, the increased transmission does not necessarily translate to severe illness, given the low rate of hospital admissions. Experts affirm that it poses a low risk of infection, and individuals with prior infection and/or vaccination can be reassured and need not be overly concerned.
The symptoms of the novel variant include fever, cough, loss of smell, and loss of taste. Additional warning signs include sustained high fever, respiratory challenges, fatigue, diminished appetite, and a tendency to vomit.
Emphasising the susceptibility of individuals to infections, health experts and the government have emphasised that those who are unwell should wear a mask to safeguard others. For the vulnerable demographies, the suggestion was made to employ pulse oximeters.
Based on the extensive global data available, it is now evident that individuals who have experienced Covid, especially those with recurrent infections, are at a higher risk of developing conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, dementia, depression, mental health issues, prolonged fatigue, and muscle pain. They may struggle to return to their usual state of functioning. This distinguishes Covid from a common cold, urging caution. It is advised that it is far better to prevent infection than to face the potential aftermath of long Covid.
Nevertheless, with an upward trajectory in cases, it becomes imperative to enforce the mandatory use of masks in crowded places. It is crucial to adopt fundamental respiratory etiquette, such as covering one’s mouth and nose during coughing and sneezing.
India is said to be prepared for the next wave if it ever happens with the high rate of vaccinations and medical advancements to back us all, it is just how people can help each other avoid any negative impacts.
