The resurgence of COVID-19 cases in India has raised concerns, coinciding with the emergence of the JN.1 sub-variant, first detected in Kerala. JN.1, a descendant of the BA 2.86 "pirola" variant, is itself an Omicron subvariant but carries an additional mutation in its receptor binding domain (L455S) compared to BA 2.86. Demonstrating broad resistance across receptor binding domain classes 1, 2, and 3, JN.1 displays heightened immune evasion compared to BA 2.86 and other resistant strains.
JN.1 Emergence and Concerns:
The detection of the JN.1 sub-variant has raised alarm, prompting the Union government to direct states to send COVID-19 test swabs for whole genome sequencing. This initiative aims to intensify vigilance against any potentially troubling variation of the virus.
Most Affected States:
The states notably affected by the recent surge include Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Goa, Puducherry, Gujarat, Telangana, Punjab, and Delhi.
Each state has escalated preparedness and implemented individual surveillance guidelines as a precautionary measure.
WHO's Insights on Rising Cases:
- The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported a 52% surge in new COVID-19 cases globally over the last four weeks, although new deaths decreased by 8% compared to the preceding 28-day period.
- Dr Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist at WHO, indicated that despite its classification as a "variant of interest," rather than a "variant of concern", the JN.1 strain doesn't pose an elevated risk to public health compared to other circulating variants.
- The WHO affirmed that current vaccines appear effective in preventing severe illness and mortality associated with JN.1.
Latest Covid-19 Updates:
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752 New Cases with 4 Fatalities: India recorded 752 new COVID-19 infections in the last 24 hours, marking the highest daily increase since May 21. Active cases now tally at 3,420, with a total death toll of 5,33,332 as per the Union Health Ministry's updated data.
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Kerala Reports 265 Fresh Cases and 1 Fatality: Kerala, significantly impacted by the JN.1 sub-variant, documented 265 new COVID-19 cases and one death according to the latest Union government data.
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Rajasthan Reports 6 New Cases: Rajasthan confirmed six new COVID-19 cases along with one related death. The state has formed a specialized team for COVID-19 prevention and control and tested samples from 683 patients on Friday.
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Second Case in Gurugram: Gurugram reported a second COVID-19 case, prompting immediate action by the health department to prevent further spread. Adequate measures have been deployed, with a 42-year-old woman testing positive on Friday.
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9 Cases in Telangana: Telangana registered nine new COVID-19 cases, predominantly in Hyderabad, with a total of 27 cases under treatment/isolation. The Health department's bulletin mentioned 1,245 samples tested, awaiting reports for 68.
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3 Cases in West Bengal, including a 6-month-old: West Bengal reported three new Covid-19 cases, including a six-month-old baby. Their connection to the JN.1 strain remains unconfirmed, but they're receiving treatment in different hospitals after testing positive.
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India's 22 Reported Cases Prompt Genome Sequencing: India has identified 22 cases of the COVID-19 subvariant JN.1, urging health authorities to ramp up preventive measures. Although cases exhibit mild symptoms, states have been directed to conduct whole genome sequencing on all positive swabs.
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Maharashtra Forms Task Force: Maharashtra announced the formation of a COVID-19 task force to analyze the threats posed by the JN.1 sub-variant amid rising cases. Data suggests most infected individuals experience mild symptoms and isolate at home, with minimal critical care needs.
Government data reveals that approximately 93% of those infected with the JN.1 variant experience mild symptoms and are isolated at home. Among hospitalized cases, only a small fraction require critical support - 0.1% on ventilators, 1.2% in the ICU, and 0.6% on oxygen support.
The emergence of the JN.1 sub-variant amidst escalating COVID-19 cases necessitates proactive measures and continued vigilance. These updates reflect the evolving situation, with a focus on tracking the spread and impact of the JN.1 sub-variant across various states in India.
While concerns persist, the majority of cases exhibit mild symptoms, providing some reassurance amid this evolving situation.
(With input from agencies)
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