According to sources within the central government, India has documented a total of 22 cases of the JN.1 variant of the Coronavirus as of December 21. These cases of the Coronavirus sub-variant JN.1 have been reported across various regions in the country, with 19 instances identified in Goa and one each in Kerala and Maharashtra. Authorities have yet to disclose details about one case within this count.
JN.1, identified as a descendant of the Omicron lineage, has garnered the classification of a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organization (WHO) and has notably become one of the swiftest-spreading viruses in recent weeks.
Responding to the recent surge in Covid cases observed in certain states, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya conducted a high-level meeting on Wednesday to assess the situation in India and discuss preparedness for surveillance, containment, and Covid management.
On Thursday, India reported 594 new coronavirus infections, slightly lower than the preceding day's count of 614, which marked the highest daily tally since May 21. In response to the situation, Minister Mandaviya urged all states to exercise vigilance, heighten surveillance efforts, and ensure an ample supply of essential medical resources such as medicines, oxygen cylinders, concentrators, ventilators, and vaccines. Additionally, he advocated for the implementation of mock drills every three months at both central and state levels to evaluate the functionality of health mechanisms.
The World Health Organization has distinguished JN.1 as a distinct "variant of interest" (VOI) separate from the parent lineage BA.2.86. The global health body characterizes a "variant of interest" as one exhibiting genetic changes that could potentially enhance its transmissibility, virulence, and capacity to evade vaccines.
Despite the classification of JN.1 as a 'variant of interest,' health experts emphasize that its emergence is neither surprising nor particularly alarming. They underscore the importance of the public adhering to existing precautionary measures in light of the ongoing situation.
