Rapid spread of COVID subvariant JN.1 threatens holiday travel season

Health officials are warning about the rapid spread of the COVID subvariant JN.1, which has become the fastest-growing strain in the US. While studies show that it is not more severe, JN.1 has a mutation that makes it more transmissible among unvaccinated individuals. The World Health Organization has classified it as a variant of interest. Hospitalizations for COVID, influenza, and RSV have been increasing, with experts emphasizing the importance of vaccination. JN.1 currently accounts for 4% of reported variants in Ohio and is expected to become the dominant variant in the Midwest. Travelers are advised to take precautions, such as getting tested before visiting elderly or immunocompromised individuals.