The novel COVID-19 variation JN.1 has been designated as a "standalone variant of interest" by the World Health Organization (WHO). The strain's 'rapidly expanding spread' compelled WHO to make its judgment. According to media sources, the early warning was prompted by the new variants' traits and their growing advantage over other strains that were already in circulation.
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, JN.1, which is now limited to its circulation in the US, is accountable for approximately 1 in 5 new cases of coronavirus infections. As winter approaches, the FDA anticipates that the incidence of JN.1 in the US will rise even further. Although JN.1 is now recognized by the WHO as a variant of interest distinct from its parent lineage, commonly known as Pirola, the BA.2.86 sublineages are still considered variants of interest. A strain with genetic changes is what the WHO considers to be a variant of interest, US News & World Report reports.
While the WHO deemed the risk of JN.1 to global public health to be minimal, it issued a warning, noting that nations about to enter winter should be mindful that COVID-19 and other diseases may intensify seasons of respiratory illness.
The JN.1 coronavirus vaccination is anticipated to function as well. "Current vaccines, including those based on ancestral strain as well as the updated monovalent XBB vaccines continue to provide protection against severe disease and death, including against JN.1," the World Health Organization's Maria Van Kerkhove stated on social media.
