Surge in COVID Cases Linked to JN.1 Variant in Kerala, as WHO Affirms Effectiveness of Existing Vaccines: Key Facts

The JN.1 coronavirus(COVID) strain was categorised as a “variant of interest” by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday. The WHO stated that the present evidence suggests that the variant poses little risk to public health.

The following updates pertain to the new COVID variant:

1. Most cases are reported from Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha in India. Kerala saw 292 new COVID-19 cases go live on Wednesday, along with three deaths. This brings the state’s overall number of active cases to 2,041 and the total number of deaths over the previous three years to 72,056.
2. In order to combat COVID-19, Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya stressed a “whole of government” approach, calling for readiness through simulated exercises, heightened surveillance, and efficient communication. He reaffirmed the Center’s commitment to states, highlighting the fact that health transcends politics.
3. Dr. Mandaviya called on all the states and Union Territories to take precautions, especially with the winter and the approaching holiday season.As of December 8, the JN.1 subvariant was estimated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to account for 15% to 29% of cases in the country.
4. In addition to stating that an improved vaccine might successfully defend against this variety, the CDC underlined that JN.1 does not pose a greater risk to public health than other variants. According to the WHO, there is now little concern for JN.1’s impact on global public health. It acknowledged that the arrival of winter may lead to a rise in respiratory infections, but it also confirmed that the existing vaccinations continue to protect against serious illness and even death.
5. COVID-19Singapore’s 19 infection cases have stabilised, but it’s still advisable to use caution and a mask in public areas. The preceding week saw a marked rise in cases, according to the Ministry of Health. Professor Paul Tambyah gave advice on how individuals should take reasonable precautions, stay home from work or school if they’re sick, and get medical help when they need it.
6. The Indian government released an advisory over the Christmas season, highlighting the need for respiratory hygiene and health preparedness in response to the increase in COVID-19 cases and JN.1 identifications in Kerala. In order to identify increasing trends early, the government instructed states to submit instances on a regular basis and monitor respiratory infections district-wide.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported 3 fatalities and 292 new COVID-19 cases in Kerala on December 19. There are currently 2,041 active cases in the state, and over the previous three years, Kerala has seen 72,056 deaths linked to COVID-19.

Despite the increase in COVID-19 cases in Kerala, State Health Minister Veena George stated on Tuesday that there is no need for panic as the state is prepared to handle the virus. Minister George added that hospital ventilators, oxygen beds, ICU beds, isolation wards, and rooms must be made available to COVID-19 patients in accordance with directions that have been issued.

Up until eight in the morning on the designated day, 341 new cases were reported in India. After being diagnosed with the infection, 224 people were cured, released from the hospital, or relocated in the last 24 hours.

Dr. Kulirankal emphasised the significance of exercising additional caution while dealing with high-risk populations, which include the elderly and immunocompromised people (i.e., patients on immunosuppressive medications, cancer patients, and those suffering from chronic kidney and liver illnesses).

“Due to the increased risk of death and morbidity, this population needs to get additional attention. It is advised to prioritise using face masks, engage in social distance, and stay away from crowded areas in order to address these concerns. These actions are intended to stop the virus from spreading and lessen the negative effects of the JN.1 subvariant on Indian public health, The JN.1 subvariant of Omicron has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a “notable descendent lineage,” indicating that it may be more transmissible than its ancestors.

Also Read About: IPL Auction 2024