Covid-19 variant JN.1: ‘Vulnerable people should mask up in festive season’

Updated On: 22 December, 2023 06:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Eshan Kalyanikar

Though the recovery rates for the new variant remains high, epidemiologists advocate caution

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Younger individuals should exercise caution, especially if they have at-risk family members at home. Representation pic

The COVID-19 variant JN.1 has been declared a ‘variant of interest’ by the World Health Organization. This variant caused a rapid surge in Singapore earlier this month and has since been detected in multiple states in India, including one in Maharashtra. This development prompted the Union health ministry to issue directives to states, urging them to intensify testing and assess available infrastructure.

Furthermore, health officials are closely monitoring individuals exhibiting influenza-like and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) symptoms. Ahead of festivities, mid-day interviewed Dr Pradeep Awate, Maharashtra`s former disease surveillance officer and epidemiologist, who was in office during the peak of the pandemic. The purpose was to gain insights into this variant and assess the level of concern people should have.

Should people avoid crowding during festivities this year?
This decision should be made on a case-by-case basis. While infections have surged, the virus is no longer as severe as before. However, it`s crucial for the elderly and those with comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer or respiratory illnesses to avoid crowds or wear masks in public places to reduce infection risk.

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Home / Mumbai / Mumbai News / Article / Covid-19 variant JN.1: ‘Vulnerable people should mask up in festive season’