COVID-19 Subvariant JN.1 Alert: Guidelines for Christmas, New Year and Mask Mandate for Seniors in Karnataka

The Health Ministry has issued an alert to states regarding the new COVID-19 subvariant, JN.1, which is currently spreading in Kerala. While it is not yet known if JN.1 causes different symptoms or is more severe than other variants, the existing treatment line for COVID-19 is expected to be effective against it. RT-PCR tests are recommended for detecting JN.1. With the upcoming festive season, the Health Ministry emphasizes the need for adhering to respiratory hygiene norms, including wearing masks, frequent hand-washing, and social distancing. Increased surveillance and monitoring of influenza-like illness and severe respiratory cases are also being implemented. JN.1 has been reported in several countries and is raising concerns due to its rapid spread and immunity-evading capacity.