A case of COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 was detected in Kerala, India, with over 90% of cases being mild and in home isolation. The strain, a descendant of the Pirola variant, contains unique mutations in the spike protein, potentially increasing infectivity and immune evasion. Updated vaccines and treatments are expected to offer protection against JN.1 sub-strain.
According to official sources, in Kerala there was a COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 case on December 8. A 79-year-old woman’s RT-PCR test was positive on November 18, they stated. She had minor ILI symptoms and recovered from COVID-19.
Sources say over 90% of COVID-19 cases in India are mild and under home isolation.
Singapore previously recognized an Indian traveler with JN.1 sub-variant. The Tiruchirapalli native traveled to Singapore on October 25.
No increase in cases was seen in Tiruchirapalli district or other Tamil Nadu areas after the strain was found.
“No other case of JN.1 variant has been detected in India,” the insider said.
The JN.1 sub-variant, originally found in Luxembourg and spreading to numerous countries, descends from the Pirola variety (BA.2.86).
A source said its many unique mutations, especially in the spike protein, may improve infectivity and immune evasion.
The insider said initial evidence indicated new immunizations and treatments will still protect against JN.1 sub-strain.
Notably, this sub-variant resembles earlier sub-strains with unique spike proteins.
Most JN.1 sub-variant alterations occur in the spike protein, which may improve infectivity and immune evasion.
Most of the 3,608 BA.2.86 and sub-variant instances worldwide are from Europe and North America.
Initial data suggest that improved COVID-19 vaccines will protect against JN.1 sub-strain, according to the CDC.
They also noted the federal government’s SARS-CoV-2 Interagency Group research indicated treatments and testing will remain effective.
Conclusion
According to official sources, in Kerala there was a COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 case on December 8. A 79-year-old woman’s RT-PCR test was positive on November 18, they stated. She had minor ILI symptoms and recovered from COVID-19.
An Indian visitor had the JN.1 sub-variant in Singapore. The JN.1 sub-variant, a descendent of the Pirola variety, has unique spike protein alterations that may improve infectivity and immune evasion. Initial research suggests improved immunizations and treatments will protect against JN.1 sub-strain. Most of the 3,608 BA.2.86 and sub-variant instances worldwide are from Europe and North America. The CDC believes revised immunizations will protect against the JN.1 sub-strain and that treatments and testing will remain effective.
