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Is JN. 1 sub-strain or coronavirus a variant of concern now? What experts say on next phase of disease

The cases of the new JN.1 sub-variant of Omnicron has been rapidly increasing in several states. There are around more than 190 active cases of the new sub-variant in the country.

The World Health Organisation had declared the JN. 1 sub-variant as a Variant of Interest. According to a report by Deccan Herald, the new JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron is Variant of Interest (VoI) and not Variant of Concern (VoC), as said by Organised Medicine Academic Guild (OMAG) which is the apex federation of 15 professional associations of post-graduate doctors in India amid the sudden in increase of Covid-19 cases.

Omicron, in reality, served as a Variant of Support (VoS) for India. Following its emergence two years ago, our country began to open up, schools and colleges resumed, tourism gained momentum, social gatherings and conferences resumed, and the economy experienced significant growth, as per his statement.

Commenting on the concern of the possibility of the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron triggering a new wave, Dr. Gilada said, “India handled the COVID-19 pandemic more effectively than numerous influential nations.”

He stated that India boasted one of the most effective COVID-19 vaccination programs, having achieved a 75 percent full vaccination rate among the population, with an additional 35 percent having received a booster (third dose).

He stated that the third wave caused by the Omicron variant, particularly by its BA.2 sub-variant, affected a majority of the population with minimal morbidity and mortality. BA.2 acted as a safeguard for India, protecting against infections from variants like BA.4, BA.5, and descendants such as BA.2.86 (Pirola). India has significantly enhanced its preparedness compared to previous times. Moreover, the country has been providing support to over 50 nations in Africa and other regions by aiding in preparedness, providing medicines, and supplying vaccines—an unparalleled contribution globally.

Although discovered in Luxembourg in August 2023 and currently present in over 40 countries, the BA.2 variant has not caused widespread morbidity or notable mortality. Globally, deaths have been limited to individuals with underlying health conditions. Initially considered more transmissible, the first case of the JN.1 variant detected in Kerala, India, did not exhibit significantly increased transmissibility.

“The presence of JN.1 has not surged the demand for oxygen, hospital beds, ICU beds, or ventilators. In reality, symptoms of JN.1 create a diagnostic challenge when compared to Influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), with the latter two being more prevalent. The focus should expand to encompass Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI) rather than solely concentrating on Covid. No fresh vaccinations or Covid boosters are deemed necessary or advised globally. Mandatory mask mandates are unnecessary, although wearing masks may be recommended for elderly individuals and those with severe underlying health conditions, as well as their caregivers, in crowded places,” explained Dr. Gilada.

“Masks are also beneficial in guarding against the harmful effects of pollutants and allergens, which are prevalent during winter and fluctuations in the Air Quality Index (AQI). There is no need for travel restrictions or limitations on social, religious, or conference gatherings. Imposing such restrictions may even be counterproductive. High-volume Covid testing is unnecessary; instead, targeted testing of suspected cases suffices. Unless a new variant emerges that matches or surpasses the severity of the Delta variant, there is no cause for concern,” he concluded.