Is the new COVID JN.1 variant more dangerous than the previous one? Here's what the doctors are saying

On December 8, a new variant of COVID-19, named JN.1, has been detected in Karakulam in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. This JN.1, ariant, which is a descendant of Pirola, has now been identified in the Country: China, US and India. , The discovery of this new strain has sparked interest and concerns around the world.

The JN.1 variant is different from the Pirola or BA. 2.86 by only one mutation in its spike protein. However it shares similarities with previous Omicron strains in terms of high transmission.

Is the new COVID JN.1 variant life threatening?

Dr Neeraj Gupta, senior consultant - pulmonology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram, told TOI there is no need to panic as initial findings indicate that JN.1 may not be more severe than earlier forms of Covid. However, further research is still needed to fully understand its behavior. It is important to monitor its transmissibility and impact on immunity, and both India and the international community are keeping a close eye on this.

India has confirmed 21 cases of the JN.1 Covid variant, sparking both attention and concern across the country. WHO recently categorized JN.1 as a variant of interest, distinct from its parent lineage BA.2.86. However, the global health body emphasizes that the overall risk posed by JN.1 is low based on current evidence. While the Union Health Ministry stresses the need for caution, experts are quick to allay fears, underlining the effectiveness of existing treatments and the mild nature of the infection.