Rapid Spread of COVID Variant JN.1 in Kochi Hospitals and Northeast US

Health experts in India have raised concerns about the increasing number of Covid-19 cases in the country, particularly due to the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron. In the Kochi region, 30% of patients with flu-like illnesses have tested positive for Covid-19 within a 24-hour period. The experts emphasized the importance of not dismissing Covid-19 as a common cold due to its long-term effects, including increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and mental health problems. While the variant is more transmissible, it may not lead to a high number of hospitalizations due to India's high vaccination rate and improved healthcare system. Precautions such as wearing masks and prioritizing vaccination for the elderly and immunocompromised individuals were recommended.