Wastewater levels in the Bay Area indicate the second-largest COVID surge of the pandemic, with infections at record highs but lower levels of deaths and hospitalizations compared to previous surges. Despite this, experts emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant, getting updated COVID vaccines, and testing more frequently due to the high infection baseline. The post-holiday surge is attributed to gatherings and travel, and the new JN.1 variant is now responsible for the majority of infections.
The World Health Organization has designated JN.1, an Omicron offshoot with an additional major mutation, as a "variant of interest." JN.1 is causing a surge in COVID wastewater levels in some countries, surpassing even the Omicron spike of early 2022. It is still unclear if JN.1 has different symptoms compared to other Omicron variants or if it is more dangerous. COVID vaccines are believed to provide good protection against JN.1, and experts recommend wearing masks and taking reasonable precautions. The antiviral drug Paxlovid is effective against JN.1, but it is important to complete the full course of treatment. At-home COVID tests still work with JN.1, but accuracy can vary. The designation of JN.1 as a variant of interest calls for increased monitoring and sequencing by health authorities. JN.1 is spreading rapidly and outcompeting other variants worldwide, contributing to record levels of COVID spread in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark.
