New Covid variant “JN.1” sparks worry among scientists
A new COVID-19 variant, identified as JN.1, has emerged and is causing concern among scientists worldwide due to its increased infectiousness.
A new COVID-19 variant, identified as JN.1, has emerged and is causing concern among scientists worldwide due to its potential for increased infectiousness and the possibility of evading vaccine immunity. The United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported the presence of the JN.1 strain in the United States and 11 other countries.
This variant is contributing to a surge in infections globally, prompting heightened vigilance from health authorities. The JN.1 variant is believed to be a descendant of BA.2.86, also known as ‘Pirola,’ which originally stemmed from the Omicron lineage.
According to experts, neither JN.1 nor BA.2.86 is currently prevalent in the United States. In fact, JN.1 has been detected so infrequently that it accounts for less than 0.1 percent of SARS-CoV-2 viruses, as stated by the CDC.
The primary distinction between JN.1 and BA.2.86 lies in the spike protein, a crucial element in the virus’s ability to infect individuals. This spike protein, so named for its appearance resembling tiny spikes on the virus’s surface, is the target of vaccines.
The CDC clarifies that vaccines designed to counter previous variants should also be effective against JN.1 and BA.2.86.
The CDC reports that nearly all viruses currently circulating in the United States belong to the XBB family, with JN.1 constituting less than 0.1% of SARS-CoV-2 viruses.
Preliminary data from the CDC indicate that updated COVID-19 vaccines are likely to provide protection against BA.2.86, and a similar level of efficacy is anticipated against JN.1. Additionally, the federal government’s SARS-CoV-2 Interagency Group’s analysis suggests that existing treatments and testing methods will remain effective.
Ms Kalinga