COVID Sub Variants, JN.1 Subvariant of Covid-19

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A new sub-variant of COVID-19, identified as JN.1, has raised concerns in India, particularly in Kerala, prompting the Union Ministry of Health to implement preparedness measures. The latest covid sub-variant, associated with the Omicron subvariant BA.2.86 or Pirola, was first detected in the United States in September 2023. China reported seven infections of this sub-variant on December 15.

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What is JN.1?

This virus represents a novel form of the Omicron subvariant BA.2.86, commonly referred to as Pirola, of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Distinguished by an additional mutation on its spike protein, this variant possesses the ability to propagate swiftly and circumvent immunity. This underscores the imperative for ongoing vigilance and careful monitoring in response to the developing situation in India.

COVID-19 Cases in India Today

Following the identification of the first case of the Coronavirus sub-variant JN.1 in Kerala, several states in India have witnessed a surge in Covid cases. Insacog, the central government’s consortium of labs, detected 19 sequences of the JN.1 variant, with one case in Maharashtra and 18 in Goa. The Union Health Ministry reported 614 new coronavirus infections, marking the highest since May 21, and the active cases have risen to 2,311.
In the last 24 hours, Kerala alone reported 292 fresh Covid infections and three deaths. Nationally, there were 341 new Covid infections, with Kerala accounting for the majority at 292 cases.

COVID Sub Variant JN.1

The JN.1 variant, considered an Omicron subvariant (BA.2.86 or Pirola), was first detected in the United States in September 2023. China reported seven infections of this subvariant on December 15. Pirola’s descendants have spread to various countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, and now India. The JN.1 variant is believed to be responsible for a recent surge in hospitalizations in multiple nations.

COVID-19 Government Advisory

As a proactive measure, the government advises the public to report symptoms promptly, increase testing, and follow recommended protective measures. With more than 90% of current Covid cases in India being mild and managed at home, early detection and reporting become crucial in curbing the spread of the JN.1 subvariant.

Surveillance by INSACOG

The India SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a multi-laboratory and multi-agency network, is actively involved in surveillance efforts. JN.1 has been identified in Kerala, prompting increased monitoring and research on this particular subvariant.

COVID Sub-Variant in Kerala

In Kerala, the JN.1 case was identified in an RT-PCR positive sample from Karakulam in Thiruvananthapuram district on December 8. The 79-year-old woman, with mild Influenza Like Illness (ILI) symptoms, has since recovered. The Union Ministry is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with the Kerala Health Department.

Symptoms of the JN.1 latest covid sub-variant include fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and mild gastrointestinal symptoms.

New COVID Sub-Variant Symptoms

Most JN.1 variant cases have been mild, with patients recovering at home.
The virus has a rapid spread, emphasizing the importance of timely detection to prevent further transmission.
The evolving nature of the virus may bring more clarity on its distinct symptoms in the near future.
Classic symptoms of the JN.1 variant include fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and stomach cramps.
Extreme fatigue is reported among individuals with the JN.1 variant.
Loss of smell has been noted in some cases.
Monitoring for these symptoms is crucial, and prompt testing and medical advice are essential to control the virus spread and ensure proper care for affected individuals.

COVID Sub-Variant in India

In India, the JN.1 case was identified in Kerala, where a woman in Thiruvananthapuram district tested positive in an RT-PCR sample. The 79-year-old woman exhibited mild symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) and has since recovered. The Union ministry is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Kerala health department. In response to the situation, the Karnataka government is conducting mock drills in hospitals to assess preparedness for a potential recurrence of the pandemic. Tamil Nadu is also taking precautions to address a possible fresh Covid outbreak, considering the recent increase in infections in neighboring Kerala.

As of the latest update, India recorded 339 new Covid-19 infections on a single day, with the active caseload reaching 1,492. The country’s total Covid case tally stands at 4,50,04,481 (4.50 crore).

Major Sub-Variants of COVID

Variant	Origin and Identification	Contagiousness	Severity	Vaccination Effectiveness
Omicron (EG.5)	Botswana/South Africa, Nov 2021	Highly contagious, driven by subvariants	Severity still under study; initial Omicron less severe	Boosters expected to be effective against EG.5 and BA.2.86
Delta (B.1.617.2)	India, Late 2020	More than twice as contagious as previous variants	Caused more severe disease, especially in the unvaccinated	Highly effective against severe illness, hospitalization, and death
Beta (B.1.351)	South Africa, End 2020	About 50% more contagious than original strain	Higher likelihood of hospitalization and death	Reduced effectiveness reported by Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson
Alpha (B.1.1.7)	Great Britain, Nov 2020	30-50% more contagious than original strain	Higher likelihood of hospitalization and increased mortality	Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson effective against severe cases

JN.1 Subvariant and Global Concerns

China has identified seven cases of the JN.1 subvariant, a novel form featuring an additional spike protein mutation, which was first discovered in the United States in September 2023. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deems it too early to predict the broader spread of JN.1, emphasizing the necessity for continuous monitoring. The India SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) actively monitors the genomic aspects of Covid-19 in the country.

COVID Sub Variants FAQs

What is the JN.1 subvariant of Covid-19?

JN.1 is a novel subvariant of the Omicron subvariant BA.2.86, known as Pirola, with an additional spike protein mutation. It was first detected in the United States in September 2023.

Where has the JN.1 subvariant been identified?

JN.1 has been identified globally, including in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, and India, with specific concerns in the state of Kerala.

What symptoms are associated with the JN.1 subvariant?

Symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, mild gastrointestinal issues, extreme fatigue, and, in some cases, loss of smell. Most cases have been mild, with patients recovering at home.