India has seen a sudden hike in COVID cases in the last few days. As per the Union Health Ministry data, in India, there have been 257 active COVID cases that were recorded in various states. Most of them were reported from Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The uptick seems to suggest a version of the coronavirus variant from Southeast Asia.
Also Read: Covid-19: Mistakes That Often Turn A Mild Case Into A Severe One
Is There A New Variant?
Yes, there is. The JN.1 strain is a descendant of the BA.2.86 variant. Besides India, a significant number of cases have also been reported in many areas of Singapore and Hong Kong. The Health authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore, China and Thailand have urged people to take booster vaccinations to avoid the spread.
Signs and Symptoms of JN.1 variant
Most individuals infected with this new COVID-19 variant experience mild upper respiratory symptoms. Some common ones include:
- Fever and a runny nose
- Sore throat
- Headaches
- Extreme fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Dry cough
- Exhaustion
- Minor gastrointestinal problems
- Loss of appetite and persistent nausea.
Also Read: Omicron: All You Need To Know About The New COVID-19 Variant
Is the JN.1 strain Variant More Deadly?
While this latest COVID-19 variant is not considered deadly, certain precautions need to be taken to prevent risk and unnecessary spread of this deadly virus. Here are 7 key preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection from the JN.1 COVID-19 variant.
Wear High-Quality Masks
Use well-fitted N95, KN95, or surgical masks in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor settings to reduce airborne transmission of the JN.1 variant, especially during outbreaks.
Stay Up To Date On Vaccinations
Ensure you have received the latest COVID-19 boosters, as they are updated to better match circulating variants like JN.1 and offer crucial protection against severe illness and hospitalization.
Practice Physical Distancing In Crowds
Maintain a safe distance in public spaces, particularly during community surges. Reducing close contact lowers the chance of exposure to respiratory droplets carrying the JN.1 variant.
Improve Indoor Ventilation
Increase airflow in enclosed areas by opening windows, usin air purifiers. Good ventilation helps dilute and remove viral particles, minimizing the spread of JN.1 indoors.
Monitor Symptoms
Watch for symptoms like sore throat, fatigue, cough, or fever. Test immediately if symptomatic or exposed to someone with COVID-19, as JN.1 may present subtly at first.
Isolate If Positive
If you test positive, isolate according to guidelines and notify close contacts. This limits further spread and supports early detection in others potentially infected with JN.1.
Maintain Hand Hygiene And Avoid Touching Your Face
Wash your hands regularly with soap or use hand sanitizer, especially after being in public. Avoid touching your face, as contaminated hands can transfer the virus to mucous membranes.
Use Contactless Options Where Possible
Choose digital payments, online shopping, or virtual meetings to reduce physical interactions. Minimizing contact surfaces and gatherings helps lower transmission of JN.1 in everyday activities.
Stay Informed Through Trusted Health Sources
Follow updates from health authorities like the WHO or the CDC. Guidance evolves with new data on variants like JN.1, and staying informed ensures timely, effective protective actions.
(This content is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile: Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
Features, Evaluation, and Treatment of Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Marco Cascella; Michael Rajnik; Abdul Aleem
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554776/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7809683/
