Covid’s JN.1 variant in India: Top indicators and signs to be careful for

New Covid variant JN.1, that has been inflicting a spike in circumstances in US since September this yr, has now been detected in India. Found in Kerala throughout a routine surveillance, the variant is presently below shut monitoring. According to an Indian Express report, round 15 circumstances of the JN.1 variant have been present in samples from Goa. A descendant of BA.2.86 variant, JN.1 has a single mutation within the spike protein in comparison with Pirola. Union well being ministry in India has urged states to step up Covid surveillance to stop unfold. Considering the unfold of variant, it could both be extra transmissible or higher at evading our immune techniques, consultants really feel. (Also learn | JN.1 Covid variant: Should we worry?)

While it isn’t clear if JN.1 variant is a explanation for fear but, India, has witnessed a spike in an infection numbers and round 252 new infections have been reported throughout the nation within the week ended December 17, in keeping with HT’s Covid-19 dashboard. It’s an enormous bounce from 125 per week in the past, and 59 per week earlier than that.

“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,” says 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,” says Dr Nikhil Modi, Senior Consultant, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.

Top indicators and signs of JN.1

“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 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,” says Dr Dutta.

Dr Sushila Kataria, Senior Director, Internal Medicine, Medanta, Gurugram shares a listing of signs that one could have with this variant

1. Cough: Persistent coughing generally is a frequent symptom.

2. Cold: Symptoms of a standard chilly, reminiscent of a runny or stuffy nostril, could also be noticed.

3. Throat ache: Sore throat or discomfort within the throat is reported.

4. Headache: Individuals contaminated with the JN1 variant could expertise complications.

5. Loose motions: Gastrointestinal signs, like unfastened motions (diarrhoea), could happen.

6. Mild breathlessness: Some people could expertise occasional gentle 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,” says 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,” provides Dr Modi.