Initial Trials Show No Cause Of Worry For Jn.1

As the temperature drops and weather becomes chilly outside, the new Covid variant is expanding its reach. A new mutation of corona virus- J.N.1 has been found. But as per the health advisory data, the new variant is similar to its predecessors, posing similar symptoms and challenges. 

The variation has been named as ‘the virus of interest’ by World health organisation (WHO) contributed to its rising number of infections. The variant falls under the category of Omicron sub-variants. The source country for JN.1 is disputed at present. CDC highlights United States as the first country to note first case of the variant in September, 2023. On the other hand, the reports of GISAID consider Denmark and Israel as the first JN.1 reporting nations. 

As of December 8th, 2023, Centre of Disease control and prevention (CDC) predicts the virus to be present in 15-29% of United States population. But the virus is not restricted to the US only; the new strain of virus is plaguing the globe. The variant has now also entered the Asian country, India.

To date, the mutation has claimed one life in Indian state of Kerala, and over 260 infections have been found nationwide. Globally, this variant has made severe uptick in the average number of Covid-19 cases. Singapore noted 75% rise in the number of covid cases in just a week from 3rd December to 9th December. China detected 9 new cases of JN.1 variant, at the same time giving US the eighth wave of mass infections. 

So in this article, we will discuss the symptoms, health implications, preventive measures and the extent of damage that can be caused by JN.1 virus. 

JN.1 Virus:

JN.1 virus is the newest mutation of the omicron virus, falling under the subset of Corona Virus. So far, the virus has made debut in some of the nations including the US, Singapore, China, India, and UK. 
The new virus has similar characteristics to its predecessors, making it a friendly foe. 

However, the new mutation is still under clinical inspection, making it difficult to make any firm claims. The initial clinical trials prove that the Covid vaccines have been effective in killing the virus, aiding the overall immunity of patients.

Additionally, on the positive note, all individuals who have received vaccination this year are showing significant immunity to JN.1 virus. The new vaccinations are found effective in curbing the spread of virus. 

Symptoms:

Due to limited exposure to the virus at the moment, health officials have been unable to identify all the symptoms. However, health records of infected patients show that the virus has similar symptoms to that of the noble corona virus including following:

• Cough
• Cold
• Fever
• Sour throat
• Runny nose
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of taste/ smell
• Body ache and
• Fatigue

The infection spread through respiratory track, much like other variants, which is why nations such as Singapore have ‘strongly advised’ the use of face masks nationwide.  

Health implications:

As per the advisory of CDC, JN.1 appears more communicable; however, due to lack of sufficient clinical trials, infection rate of JN.1 cannot be compared with Covid-19 virus. Hence, health officials have categorized the virus as low impact virus, posing low health implications. 

Preventive measures for the JN.1 virus:

Prevention is always better than cure. JN.1 virus is at the threshold level today. Its symptoms and major health implications are found somewhat similar to other covid variants. But health officials, including World health Organisation, CDC, regulatory bodies advise to practice utmost precautions. 

Some of these preventive measures include:

• Get vaccinated if not already vaccinated. Vaccination is proven to be highly effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Additionally, the new and improved vaccines are capable of curbing the spread of virus.
• Wear masks outdoors, especially in public transportation and crowded areas.
• Include hand washing in your daily regime. Wash hands with mild soapy water for at least 20 seconds.
• Regularly clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces and objects in your environment.
• If you have symptoms, have tested positive, or have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, follow isolation/ quarantine guidelines. Seek immediate medical attention. Ensure to that medication-related preventive measures should be administered under the guidance of healthcare professionals only.
• Lastly, make sure to stay informed with the latest updates. Avoid indulging in rumors spread through social media.

Conclusion:

The emergence of JN.1 underscores the ever-evolving nature of corona virus. While ongoing clinical trials and investigations are underway, initial findings outlook a reassuring look for now. Nonetheless, adopting precautionary measures remains prudent, as the adage "prevention is better than cure" aptly applies.