In a recent update, the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the JN.1 Covid variant as a “variant of interest” but assures the public that the additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low. The organization emphasizes that existing vaccines continue to provide protection against severe disease and death caused by JN.1 and other circulating variants of the Covid-19 virus.
WHO spokesperson Dr. @mvankerkhove addressed concerns about the current surge in respiratory diseases, including the JN.1 subvariant, urging individuals to follow WHO’s public health advice to keep their families and friends safe during the holiday season. The WHO highlights the importance of strong surveillance and sequence sharing to monitor the evolving nature of the virus.
The JN.1 variant has been identified in Kerala, prompting the Indian government to issue an advisory to state governments. Recognizing the upcoming festive season, the advisory stresses the need for implementing public health measures and arrangements to minimize the risk of increased transmission of the disease.
The advisory reads, “Considering the upcoming festive season, there is a need to put in place requisite public health measures and other arrangements to minimize the risk of an increase in transmission of the disease by adherence to the maintenance of respiratory hygiene.”
While the WHO indicates a low global public health risk from JN.1, the situation in India underscores the importance of continued vigilance and adherence to preventive measures to curb the spread of the variant during social gatherings and celebrations.
The WHO continues to stress the dynamic nature of the virus, urging member states to maintain strong surveillance and sequence sharing. The organization acknowledges that the virus is changing and evolving, emphasizing the importance of ongoing assessment and adaptation of public health strategies.
As the world navigates through the challenges posed by emerging variants, the WHO encourages collaboration and information-sharing to stay ahead of the virus’s evolution. The global community is reminded to stay informed and follow public health guidelines to ensure the safety of individuals and communities worldwide.
