JN.1 sub-variant whose earliest documented sample was reported on 25 August 2023 and which was later reported by the researchers to have higher transmissibility and immune escape ability, has now been designated a variant of interest (VOIs) by WHO.
In the last few weeks, JN.1 cases have been reported in many countries. Its prevalence is rapidly increasing globally. In view of rapidly increasing spread, WHO has classified JN.1 as a separate variant of interest (VOI).
As per initial risk evaluation by WHO, the additional public health risk posed by JN.1 sub-variant is low at the global level.
Notwithstanding higher infection rate and possibility of immunity evasion, current evidence does not suggest that the disease severity could be higher compared to other circulating variants.
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References:
- WHO. Tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants – Currently circulating variants of interest (VOIs) (as of 18 December 2023). Available at https://www.who.int/activities/tracking-SARS-CoV-2-variants
- WHO. JN.1 Initial Risk Evaluation 18 December 2023. Available at https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/18122023_jn.1_ire_clean.pdf?sfvrsn=6103754a_3
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