JN.1 New COVID-19 Variant: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Risk, Prevention & Treatment

Dr.Akshay Budhraja, 4 mins read

JN.1 is the latest COVID-19 variant in India. It is the variant of the Omicron sub-variant BA.2.86 (commonly known as Pirola). Over the last few weeks, it has been the talk of the town, raising the concerns of experts, regulatory bodies and citizens.

According to reports, over 300 cases of this variant have been reported in the country from December 2023 to the first week of January 2024. And the cases are still steadily rising.

The new variant seems to spread faster and evade immunity than already circulating variants possibly due to mutation in its spike protein. Thus, necessitating the need for continuous monitoring of the cases and incorporating measures to curb the increased cases.

Seeing the continuous spike in cases in many countries, WHO has categorised it as a Variant of Interest (VOI), meaning it is under intense scientific scrutiny.

What are the symptoms of JN.1?
The symptoms of the latest COVID variant in India may include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Congestion or runny nose
• Throat pain or sore throat
• Headache or muscle ache
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of appetite
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Gastrointestinal problems like diarrhoea
• Loss of taste or smell

Some patients also complain about anxiety and trouble sleeping. If you are having these symptoms, don’t ignore them and consult an expert at Aakash Healthcare.

Are symptoms from the new Covid variant mild?
As per the initial studies, the symptoms of the JN.1 variant in most of the cases are mild. And around 10% of cases, especially individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, reported severe symptoms.

How long does the new Covid variant take to show symptoms?
The Covid-19 symptoms usually develop within three to four days of incubation. However, some patients may come up within 24 to 48 hours of incubation. In a nutshell, the time can vary from person to person. However, experts are still researching the exact time the JN.1 variant takes to show symptoms after incubation.

How is it diagnosed?
A PCR test or rapid antigen can help identify COVID-19, however, you need a genome sequencing test to know whether it is a JN.1 variant.

Who is at more risk?
Like other Covid variants, the JN.1 variant can also affect people of all ages. However, certain groups are susceptible to severe symptoms like older adults, people with weak immunity or any underlying medical condition.

How dangerous is the JN.1 variant?
According to experts, the overall risk of the JN.1 variant is low. However, it can spread faster and evade immunity. The variant can also affect the vaccinated individuals and people who earlier recovered from the Covid.

What’s the fatality rate of the JN.1 Covid variant?
According to reports, the fatality rate of the JN.1 Covid variant is less than 2% and most patients get well at home by following doctors’ advice.

How to protect yourself and your kids/ parents from the new variant of COVID-19?
Adopt the following preventive measures:

• Wear a N-95 mask wherever you go outside, especially in crowded areas
• Sanitise or wash your hands frequently
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Get vaccination
• Maintain a healthy diet to boost the immune system

Self-care at home for people suffering from JN.1 covid
If you are experiencing the symptoms of the new COVID-19 variant, immediately consult a doctor. If your symptoms are mild, you may be recommended to self-care at home:

• Isolate yourself from other family members
• Get adequate rest
• Drink lukewarm water
• Follow doctors’ advice
• Don’t take stress
• Timely take prescribed medicines

Treatment of JN.1 covid
The treatment of the JN.1 variant is similar to other COVID-19 variants. This includes supportive care, antiviral medications and oxygen therapy in severe cases. However, scientists are researching the specific treatment protocols for the JN.1 COVID-19 variant.