COVID update: 1,513 cases of JN.1 variant detected in India, says INSACOG

As per the latest reports from the INSACOG, a total of 1,513 cases of JN.1 variant have been reported in the country. Data compiled by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) shows the number of COVID cases caused due to the JN.1 variant in several Indian states. The states have been urged to ensure effective compliance of the detailed operational guidelines for the revised surveillance strategy for COVID-19 shared with them by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

According to the INSACOG data, Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of JN.1 cases at 382 followed by Karnataka at 249. Andhra Pradesh recorded 189 JN.1 cases while Kerala registered 156 cases of the variant and Gujarat recorded 126 such cases. West Bengal recorded 96 JN.1 cases, Goa 90 and Tamil Nadu 89. Rajasthan has recorded 38 JN.1 cases, Telangana recorded 32, Chhattisgarh 25, Delhi 21, Uttar Pradesh nine, Haryana five, Odisha three, and Uttarakhand, Manipur and Nagaland one each, according to the data accessed by PTI. The Centre has asked the states and Union territories to maintain a constant vigil amid an uptick in the number of Covid cases and the detection of the JN.1 sub-variant in the country.

The World Health Organisation has classified JN.1 as a separate "variant of interest" given its rapidly-increasing spread, but said it poses a "low" global public health risk. The JN.1 sub-variant of the coronavirus was previously classified as a variant of interest (VOI) as part of the BA.2.86 sub-lineages, the parent lineage that is classified as a VOI, the world body said.

The states have also been asked to regularly monitor and report district-wise cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) from all health facilities for an early detection of a rising trend of Covid cases. Influenza-like illness (ILI) symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms resemble those of influenza but can also be caused by other respiratory viruses.

To stay safe from COVID-19, practice frequent handwashing with soap, maintain social distancing, and wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces. Stay updated on vaccination schedules and get vaccinated for added protection. Avoid large gatherings, especially indoors, and prioritize outdoor activities. Monitor your health for symptoms and seek testing if needed. Follow guidelines from health authorities, adhere to quarantine or isolation protocols if necessary, and stay informed about the virus's latest developments. Combining personal precautions with community efforts helps reduce the risk of transmission and safeguards both individual and public health.