Covid JN.1 Variant Emergency alert: Symptoms & Precautions

The number of fresh COVID-19 cases has seen a significant increase. A new COVID variant, JN.1 is spreading in different parts of the world, including India. The Indian states that are witnessing a rise include Delhi NCR, Ghaziabad, Haryana, Bangalore, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Goa, to name a few. 

According to the recent reports published on 22nd December by the Union Ministry of Health, the total number of active cases in India is 2997, out of which Kerala alone has 2606 cases of COVID-19. WHO has classified this variant as ‘Variant of Interest’ and is keeping a strict watch against the rising cases globally. 

Should You Be Worried?

Now, with this JN.1 variant, the question that arises is whether you should be worried and how infectious it is. Dr Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO scientist and former DG of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) indicated that there is no data that would indicate this variant to be more severe than others, however, all we can do is to be careful, and take precautionary measures like avoid staying close to infected people, wearing masks, and more. 

Further, when asked about COVID-19 testing, she said, “It is not possible to test everyone with symptoms. We must test people hospitalised with a severe respiratory infection or pneumonia”. To be prepared against this variant, the Directorate of Public Health has advised hospitals to check the stock of oxygen cylinders and necessary medicines. 

Things You Need to Worry About with Surge in COVID-19 Cases

As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), these are the few things that you need to be aware of amidst these fresh COVID cases:

• The high transmissibility of the JN.1 variant
• The immune system of the individual will determine the immune escape potential of JN.1
• The growing cases are a concern for countries which is experiencing the winter season at this time as the chances of spread in such regions will be higher

Symptoms of JN.1 Variant

Symptoms of JN. variants are listed below:

• High fever
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Extreme fatigue
• Stomach problem
• Sore throat
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of appetite

The aforementioned symptoms generally develop within 3-4 days. If you develop any of these symptoms, you should immediately consult a medical practitioner and get yourself tested.

Health Insurance and COVID JN.1 Variant

However, as per health experts, you need not worry as of now as the Government is constantly monitoring the spread. But, as a preventive measure, all you can do is review your health insurance policy. If you have not yet bought a policy, buy health insurance now and stay prepared against such emergencies.