'JN.1 Variant Not Fatal But...': Ex-AIIMS Chief Randeep Guleria On Rising Covid-19 Cases
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Dr Guleria said COVID-19 vaccines protect against the JN.1 variant, though not fully due to its mutations. They still lower the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and death
Several countries, including India, are witnessing a fresh surge in COVID-19 cases, sparking renewed public concern. After a period of relative decline, infections are once again on the rise—driven by emerging variants.
Amid this uptick, Dr. Randeep Guleria, former director of AIIMS Delhi, has weighed in on the situation, offering insights and advice on how to stay safe. Speaking to a private news channel, Dr. Guleria explained that the increase in COVID-19 cases is primarily due to the JN.1 variant, first identified in August 2023.
This variant, a sub-variant of the Omicron lineage, is spreading rapidly due to mutations in the spike protein, enabling it to evade the immune system. Dr. Guleria shared that while the JN.1 variant is not highly fatal and generally causes mild symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, cold, and runny nose, it can be more dangerous for the elderly, individuals with comorbidities like diabetes or heart disease, and those with weakened immune systems. Dr. Guleria emphasised that these vulnerable groups should adhere strictly to COVID-19 protocols to avoid infection.
The situation in India remains under control, but ongoing surveillance of the new variant is necessary, he said adding that preparations should be made to handle any potential escalation.
The former AIIMS director said current data suggests that COVID-19 vaccines offer protection against the JN.1 variant, although they may not fully prevent infection due to its mutations. Vaccines help reduce the severity of the illness and the risk of hospitalisation or death. However, the constant mutations in the virus may decrease the effectiveness of older vaccines, he cautioned.
According to experts, people with serious health conditions should take extra precautions to avoid COVID-19. In addition to vaccines, various antiviral medications are now available, which can help treat COVID-19 and reduce the severity of symptoms, they said.
These drugs have proven effective against the virus and have contributed to lower mortality rates compared to the early stages of the pandemic, they said adding that antiviral medications are particularly beneficial for high-risk patients, aiding in their recovery.
Experts have advised that since COVID-19 symptoms often resemble those of other infections, anyone experiencing a cough, cold, or fever should consider getting tested.
First Published:
May 28, 2025, 15:03 IST
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