New Omicron subvariant JN.1 has been detected in Kerala; sparking concerns & necessitating heightened alertness.
Union Ministry of Health initiated preparedness measures following JN.1 identification in Kerala on December 16.
Health facilities across states conducted mock drills, evaluating public health and hospital readiness until December 18.
Pirola descendants spread in 38 countries, including the U.S., U.K., Iceland, Spain, Portugal and Netherlands.
Kerala reported JN.1 case in a 79-year-old woman from Karakulam. She had mild symptoms and has recovered from Covid-19.
JN.1, a variant of Covid, is linked to Omicron subvariant BA.2.86 or Pirola, first detected in the U.S. in September 2023.
JN.1 variant spreads faster, evades immunity; responsible for increased hospitalisation: NIMA Covid Task Force co-chairman.
JN.1 causes mild upper respiratory symptoms—fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache; similar to other global variants.
Prompt testing for viral symptoms, wearing masks, and isolation if symptoms persist, are the recommended precautions.