Is JN.1 Highly Infectious Covid-19 Sub-Variant?

News Desk

India: Experts suggest that the rise in global cases indicates the potential dominance of JN.1, an Omicron sub-lineage, owing to its significant ability to evade immunity.

This classification as a “variant of interest” (VOI) by the WHO, distinct from the BA.2.86 lineage, comes as it spreads rapidly, highlighted as the fastest-growing variant by the US CDC. In India, with 21 identified cases, concerns arise regarding its swift transmission.

Dr Rajesh Karyakarte, Maharashtra’s genome sequencing coordinator, notes an exponential growth advantage. WHO data illustrates JN.1’s surge from 3.3 percent to 27 percent of cases within a month, marking an 86 percent growth rate. The factors contributing to this include heightened transmission, immune evasion, and an extended infectious phase.

The variant’s contagiousness and ability to surpass the body’s immune defenses are apparent, as acknowledged by the CDC. However, despite increased transmission, severe illness leading to hospitalizations remains low. Experts reassure that it poses minimal risk, particularly for those previously infected or vaccinated.

Genome researchers Vinod Scaria and Bani Jolly highlight SARS-CoV-2’s continuous evolution, with JN.1 showcasing an additional spike protein mutation, L455S. Their assertion of JN.1’s potential to outperform other variants stems from its pronounced immune evasion characteristics, signaling a possible competitive edge.

Do We Need to Worry?

Dr Ameet Dravid, an infectious disease expert, emphasizes the virus’s continuous mutation, indicating an ongoing strengthening process. While current treatments primarily address mild upper respiratory tract infections in hospital settings, Dr Dravid warns of a potential surge in cases due to heightened immune evasion by the variant. He stresses the importance of vaccination, especially for partially vaccinated individuals.

No distinctive symptoms have emerged, with presentations resembling earlier variants: sore or scratchy throat, fatigue, headache, body ache, congestion, coughing, and fever.

With cases on the rise, Dr Dravid advocates for mandatory mask-wearing in crowded settings. Additionally, he urges the adoption of basic respiratory etiquette, such as covering the mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing, as a necessary preventive measure.

The news report has been published in Indian Express on December 21 and it is a reproduced story.