JN.1 subvariant of COVID-19 detected in Kerala through ongoing surveillance by INSACOG

On December 8, authorities in Kerala reported the detection of a case involving the COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1. The infected individual, a 79-year-old woman, had tested positive in an RT-PCR test on November 18. Fortunately, she experienced only mild symptoms of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and had successfully recovered from COVID-19.

It is noteworthy that over 90% of current COVID-19 cases in India are categorized as mild, and those affected are undergoing home isolation, according to official sources. Earlier, another case of the JN.1 sub-variant was identified in a traveler from Tamil Nadu's Tiruchirapalli district in Singapore. The individual had visited Singapore on October 25, yet no subsequent increase in cases was observed in Tiruchirapalli district or other parts of Tamil Nadu.

Officials have clarified that, as of now, no other instances of the JN.1 variant have been reported in India. This sub-variant, originally discovered in Luxembourg and subsequently identified in multiple countries, is a descendant of the Pirola variant (BA.2.86). It exhibits notable mutations, particularly in the spike protein, potentially contributing to heightened infectivity and immune evasion.

Despite these unique mutations, preliminary data suggests that existing vaccines and treatments remain effective against the JN.1 sub-variant. The global tally reports 3,608 cases of BA.2.86 and its sub-variants, predominantly concentrated in Europe and North America.

The US Centers for Disease Control and zPrevention (CDC) have reassured the public that initial data indicates the efficacy of updated COVID-19 vaccines against the JN.1 sub-strain. Furthermore, an analysis from the federal government's SARS-CoV-2 Interagency Group suggests that current treatments and testing methods will continue to be effective.

As part of its routine exercises, the Union Health Ministry is conducting mock drills in health facilities across states to assess their public health and hospital preparedness measures. The ministry remains in close contact with state health authorities, diligently monitoring the evolving situation.

(With input from agencies)