Rapid spread of JN.1 variant prompts increased surveillance and mask mandates in Kerala and Karnataka

As Covid-19 cases rise in Kerala, surveillance has been increased in Maharashtra following the detection of the JN.1 subvariant. The majority of cases in Kerala are clinically mild and recovering at home, but public health measures are being implemented to minimize transmission risks during the upcoming festive season. District health authorities in Maharashtra have been directed to evaluate hospital readiness, establish isolation wards, and conduct regular surveillance of Covid-19 and influenza cases. Sewage-waste water sampling is also being conducted for timely detection of new variants. The JN.1 subvariant, classified as a variant of interest by the World Health Organization, has not shown an increase in hospitalization so far.