• UGI USER
  • Dec 20, 2023
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WHO DESIGNATES JN.1 AS A VARIANT OF INTEREST

Why in the News?

  • World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Covid-19 sub-variant JN.1 as a “variant of interest” distinct from BA.2.86 (Pirola).
  • Previously considered part of Pirola sub-lineages, JN.1 is now recognized separately due to its increasing spread.
Source: COVID communication Network

Public Health Impact and Vaccines:

  • WHO states no evidence of additional public health risk from JN.1, but with the winter onset, it could heighten respiratory infections globally.
  • Assures existing vaccines continue to protect against severe illness and death caused by JN.1.
  • Globally, cases emerge in the US, Europe, Singapore, and China.
  • Impact on India: India reports JN.1 cases from Kerala and Goa.

 

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.