• UGI USER
  • Dec 30, 2023
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JN.1 COVID-19 VARIANT: CLARIFYING PROTOCOLS

Why in the News?

  • The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies JN.1 as a ‘variant of interest’ on December 19, 2023, belonging to the BA.2.86 Omicron lineage.
  • 1 raises global concern due to its rapid spread, prompting increased COVID-19 cases.
Source: COVID communication Network

About  JN.1 Variant:

  • The JN.1 variant carries the L455S mutation in the spike protein, potentially affecting its ability to bind to human cells.
  • WHO states no evidence of additional public health risk from JN.1, but with the winter onset, it could heighten respiratory infections globally.
  • Existing vaccines, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, remain effective against JN.1, minimizing the need for booster shots.

Situation in India:

  • India reports JN.1 cases from Kerala and Goa.
  • India witnesses a rise in COVID-19 cases, exceeding 4,000 active cases, and a slight increase in fatalities.
About Variant of Interest (VOI)

A variant is designated as a Variant of Interest (VOI) if it exhibits growth advantages or changes in transmissibility, virulence, or susceptibility to therapies.

About World Health Organization

·   Establishment: WHO founded on April 7, 1948 is a specialized agency of the United Nations.

·   Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.

·   Functions: Focuses on international public health and coordinates global health efforts, provides guidelines, and responds to health emergencies.

·   Achievements: Instrumental in eradicating smallpox, addressing global health challenges, and shaping health policies worldwide