1. WHO advises global vigilance in COVID-19 surveillance.
2. Urges enhanced sharing of genetic sequencing data.
3. JN.1, a sublineage of BA.2.86, linked to a surge in cases.
New Delhi, Dec 18: The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging countries globally to maintain strong surveillance of COVID-19 cases and enhance the sharing of genetic sequencing data as a new dominant strain, identified as JN.1, a sublineage of BA.2.86, contributes to a sharp increase in cases.
This advisory comes amid a surge in respiratory infections worldwide, with the recent holiday season gatherings and other infections playing a role in the spread of various pathogens, including COVID-19. Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove from WHO emphasized the need for continued vigilance, especially during the winter months when people tend to gather indoors.
Dr @mvankerkhove talks about the current surge in respiratory diseases #COVID19 and JN.1 subvariant.
WHO continues to assess the situation. Follow WHO's public health advice to keep your families and friends safe during this holiday season. pic.twitter.com/HvAZVMMN49
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) December 17, 2023
India has detected cases of the COVID sub-variant JN.1 in Kerala as part of routine surveillance conducted by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).
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In a video message, Dr. Kerkhove explained that the rise in COVID cases is attributed to the evolving nature of the virus, with the XBB sublineages representing about 68% of globally shared sequences.
The BA.2.86 grouping, notably JN.1, encompasses a range of symptoms, from asymptomatic infection to severe disease and death, similar to other Omicron sublineages.
Dr. Kerkhove emphasized the importance of vaccination and clinical care in protecting against severe disease and death.
She encouraged individuals to utilize various tools to prevent infection and to get vaccinated when eligible, as all COVID-19 vaccines, including those targeting emerging variants like JN.1, continue to protect severe outcomes.
As many countries experience a surge in COVID-19 cases, Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has advised increased mask usage in crowded places, especially indoors.
Travelers are also urged to adopt precautions such as mask-wearing at airports and avoiding poorly ventilated crowded areas.
