Covid-19 variant JN.1: ‘Vulnerable people should mask up in festive season’

The COVID-19 variant JN.1 has been declared a ‘variant of interest' by the World Health Organization. This variant caused a rapid surge in Singapore earlier this month and has since been detected in multiple states in India, including one in Maharashtra. This development prompted the Union health ministry to issue directives to states, urging them to intensify testing and assess available infrastructure.

Furthermore, health officials are closely monitoring individuals exhibiting influenza-like and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) symptoms. Ahead of festivities, mid-day interviewed Dr Pradeep Awate, Maharashtra's former disease surveillance officer and epidemiologist, who was in office during the peak of the pandemic. The purpose was to gain insights into this variant and assess the level of concern people should have.

Should people avoid crowding during festivities this year?
This decision should be made on a case-by-case basis. While infections have surged, the virus is no longer as severe as before. However, it's crucial for the elderly and those with comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer or respiratory illnesses to avoid crowds or wear masks in public places to reduce infection risk.

Although labelled a ‘variant of interest' by WHO, it hasn't been termed a ‘variant of concern', says the expert. Representation pic

Younger individuals should exercise caution, especially if they have at-risk family members at home, by wearing masks when out during festivities. Overall, those experiencing influenza-like illness should wear masks and, if possible, avoid in-person interactions until recovery. Otherwise, there's no need to panic.

What information to we have about this new variant?
Periodically, the virus undergoes mutations, altering its genomic structure. These changes don't necessarily increase its virulence (severity). JN.1 is more transmissible but is a sub-lineage of the earlier Omicron variant, not a new virus. Although labelled a 'variant of interest' by WHO, it hasn't been termed a 'variant of concern', despite existing in other countries for months before its detection in India.

Are there any observed symptoms different from before?
Data indicates mild symptoms such as cough, fever, sore throat, body ache and fatigue. Recovery rates are high without hospitalisation needed. Not everyone experiencing these symptoms needs immediate COVID testing.

However, it's highly recommended that the elderly, those with SARI or comorbidities, get RT-PCR tests at the earliest when experiencing such symptoms. This aids in genome sequencing, helping authorities detect the new variant's prevalence.

Can you explain the relationship between weather patterns and the surge in cases?
COVID-19 is now endemic in India, akin to seasonal flu, causing annual fluctuations. Certain regions are experiencing a cold wave, favourable for airborne infection transmission like influenza or COVID-19.

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No of people who tested positive in the city in December