The advent of new variants continues to pose challenges to global health efforts in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. One such variant that has recently come to attention is JN.1.

As per the Centers for Disease Control And Prevention (CDC), JN.1 is closely related to the variant BA.2.86. It was first identified in the US in September 2023, and by end of October, it had made up to less than 0.1% cases of SARS-CoV-2 viruses.

Variants of the virus occur naturally over time as it replicates and spreads. Some variants may have changes in their genetic code that can impact their transmissibility, severity, and ability to evade immunity.

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How Infectious Is The JN.1 Variant?

The CDC reveals that with the continued growth of JN.1, it is either more transmissible or good at escaping the immune system. However, there is no evidence that JN.1 would present a high risk to public health relative to other currently circulating variants.

Epidemiologists believe that increased transmission may lead to a spike in case numbers and hospitalizations; however, it would soon settle away.

In essence, all coronaviruses affect the functioning of the respiratory tract, including lung capacity and breathing. The characteristic symptoms of COVID 19 include cough, cold, sneezing, fever, headaches and sore throat, often mimicking those of the flu.

The best way to safeguard yourself from coronavirus infection is prevention. Make sure to carry around these items with you, as this coronavirus kit helps to efficiently curb the spread of infection and stay protected, healthy and disease-free.