Latest news with #NB.1.8
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
With JN.1 variant spreading, caution and resilience key to smart Covid preparedness
Image used is for representational purposes only LUCKNOW: India is keeping a close eye on Covid-19 landscape as a modest rise in cases emerges across the country. While the current number of 257 active infections nationwide remains low by historical standards, health experts are urging caution due to regional spikes and the spread of highly transmissible JN.1 variant. The recent uptick in Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi reflect a broader pattern across Southeast Asia, where countries like Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and Thailand are witnessing a fresh surge in cases. The spike is being driven by the JN.1 lineage of Omicron, along with newer offshoots like LF.7 and NB.1.8. What we know about JN.1 First identified in 2023, JN.1 has steadily gained ground due to its ability to spread. According to the World Health Organization, it now accounts for over a quarter of all global genomic sequences submitted. Though JN.1 doesn't appear to cause more severe illness, its rapid spread and mutation warrant ongoing surveillance. The variant carries around 30 mutations that enhance its immune evasion, meaning even previously infected or vaccinated individuals can experience reinfection although most cases remain mild. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Symptoms mild, but stay vigilant Most of the recent Covid-19 cases, especially those linked to the JN.1 variant, are showing up as mild upper respiratory symptoms like sore throat, cough, or a low-grade fever and often settle within a few days. But one must remember that the virus hasn't gone away. People with weaker immunity, the elderly, or those with chronic illness should take precautions. A little care can prevent bigger problems later. In Mumbai, death of two patients with advanced cancer and kidney disease have sparked renewed concern. While Covid-19 was not deemed the direct cause of death, both patients tested positive and were handled with Covid-appropriate protocols. What's new on the vaccine front? In response to the evolving variant landscape, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its Covid-19 vaccine guidelines for 2024-2025 season. The latest vaccine formulations are tailored to JN.1 and its descendants. The CDC recommends one dose of updated vaccine for individuals aged 12–64, and two doses, six months apart, for those aged 65 and above. The Union health ministry is reviewing data on updated formulations, and discussions are underway regarding rollout strategies should local cases spike further. India's approach: Prepared, not panicked Officials from the Union ministry of health and family welfare have reassured citizens that the current situation is under control. However, they emphasize the importance of maintaining basic preventive measures. Public health authorities are also encouraging states to ramp up genome sequencing and clinical surveillance through INSACOG, India's genomic consortium. Why this matters This moment calls not for panic, but for preparedness. We're in a phase where complete elimination of the virus is unrealistic but what's entirely within our control is how intelligently we respond. Surveillance, timely intervention, and protecting vulnerable people remain the key. Resilience, and not fear, should guide our public health strategy moving forward. (The writer is a medical scientist and an expert of infectious diseases)
News18
23-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Booster Shots Crucial For High-Risk People, Waning Immunity Fuels COVID-19 Surge: AIIMS Professor
Last Updated: India's resilience against Covid-19 depends on several factors - widespread prior exposure to the virus, extensive vaccination coverage, and ongoing public health monitoring. Booster doses may not be urgently needed for the general population, but they are crucial for the elderly and medically vulnerable, as waning immunity emerges as a key driver behind the latest global COVID-19 surge, Dr Piyush Ranjan, professor at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), told News18. As several parts of Asia grapple with a fresh surge of COVID-19 cases, India stands relatively unshaken. Countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and China have witnessed a sharp rise in infections driven by the highly transmissible Omicron subvariants LF.7 and NB.1.8. 'Despite the latest virus's enhanced ability to spread, India's COVID-19 situation remains stable, with only a mild uptick in cases reported as of mid-May," said Ranjan, a professor, Department of Medicine, AIIMS New Delhi. Ranjan – who has published various studies in peer reviewed journals to assess the impact of Covid-19 – believes that booster doses, particularly those targeting Omicron-related variants remain effective in reducing severe disease, hospitalisation, and death, though they are less effective against mild or asymptomatic infections. 'Given the mild nature of current cases and the absence of a significant surge in India, booster doses for the general population are not urgently necessary but should be encouraged for those who have not received a booster in over a year, as waning immunity is a key driver of current surges," Ranjan said. 'Updated monovalent vaccines targeting JN.1 or closely related strains are expected to offer protection against severe disease caused by LF.7 and NB.1.8," he added. According to Ranjan's analysis, in Singapore, ICU admissions have slightly declined, which is an encouraging sign that while more people are falling ill, most are not experiencing severe disease. 'The common denominator in these regions is the rapid spread of LF.7 and NB.1.8, subvariants descended from JN.1, which in turn emerged from the BA.2.86 lineage of Omicron," he said. These subvariants, he said, carry mutations that allow them to evade immunity more effectively, leading to increased transmission – even among those previously infected or vaccinated. 'However, while their spread is swift, the symptoms remain largely mild: sore throat, low-grade fever, fatigue, and occasionally nausea or diarrhoea," Ranjan said. India's numbers tell a calmer story, he said, based on the May 19 data, which recorded just 257 active COVID-19 cases nationwide, primarily concentrated in Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Unlike the sharp spikes observed abroad, India's increase has been described as 'under control." 'Most patients have reported only mild symptoms and have recovered at home without the need for hospitalisation or advanced medical care." Ranjan attributes India's resilience to several factors, saying, 'Widespread prior exposure to the virus, extensive vaccination coverage, and ongoing public health monitoring are the main reasons. However, there is a caution against complacency, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions." Globally, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has categorised LF.7 and NB.1.8 as Variants Under Monitoring, not Variants of Concern, underscoring that while these subvariants warrant attention, they do not currently pose a significant global health threat. Be cautious, not fearful To avoid unnecessary alarm while maintaining readiness, he believes in educating the public about mild symptoms instead of imposing 'blanket restrictions that could spark panic." 'Focus on educating the public about mild symptoms, the effectiveness of vaccines, and the importance of protecting vulnerable groups. Use trusted channels to counter misinformation," he said. 'Encourage voluntary measures like mask-wearing in crowded indoor settings, hand hygiene, and respiratory etiquette, particularly during travel or large gatherings," he said while adding that the government 'must avoid mandatory restrictions unless severe cases rise significantly," he added. As the virus continues to evolve, he believes, the government must ensure that hospitals are prepared for potential localised increases in admissions, particularly in states like Kerala and Maharashtra, without overhyping the risk. 'India's current low case load suggests existing capacity is sufficient. These measures align with the current mild nature of the surge and the effectiveness of existing vaccines, focusing on protecting the vulnerable while maintaining normalcy," Ranjan said. 'The public is urged to remain cautious but not fearful," he said while adding that 'India's robust surveillance and vaccination infrastructure provide a strong foundation to manage this wave without alarmist responses." tags : coronavirus covid vaccine covid-19 Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: May 23, 2025, 10:37 IST News india Booster Shots Crucial For High-Risk People, Waning Immunity Fuels COVID-19 Surge: AIIMS Professor
NDTV
21-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Covid-19 Cases In India: No Need To Panic, Says Expert; Do Not Ignore These Symptoms Of JN.1
A fresh wave of Covid-19 is sweeping across Asia, with Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand witnessing a rise in infections. India has also reported 257 active covid cases. Kerala, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have recorded an uptick in active cases over the past few weeks. The driver behind the surge of Covid-19 cases in Asia is reportedly the JN.1 variant and its descendants, particularly LF.7 and NB.1.8, which are a subvariant of the Omicron lineage. "Currently, we are seeing an increase in cases attributed to JN.1, which is a subvariant of Omicron. While the symptoms tend to be mild, including fever, cold, cough, and loss of smell or taste, it remains highly contagious," said Dr. Sharad Joshi, Director & HOD, Pulmonology and Paediatric Pulmonology, Max Healthcare JN.1 variant: What we know so far According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was first detected in the US in September 2023. It is a descendant of the BA.2.86 variant (an Omicron sub-variant). The World Health Organisation has classified the JN.1 strain as a "variant of interest" and not a "variant of concern" yet. What are the symptoms of JN.1 strain? Fever, sore throat, runny nose, headaches, and muscle weakness are some common symptoms of this variant. However, unlike other variants, JN.1 can also cause gastrointestinal problems. Diarrhea, loss of appetite, persistent nausea, and extreme fatigue are a few unique symptoms of JN.1. Should you be worried? "There's no need to panic, but exercising caution is essential. It may be wise to avoid non-essential travel, large gatherings, and outings for the time being. A couple of deaths have been reported, so can't take it lightly. It is important to practice caution," Dr Joshi added. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
