As the holiday season approaches, there is growing concern over a new variant of COVID-19 that is fueling a rise in infections. The variant, known as JN.1, is a subvariant of the omicron variant and currently accounts for approximately 21% of new infections in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The prevalence of JN.1 has been increasing rapidly in recent weeks. CDC data shows that cases of JN.1 infections rose from just over 8% at the end of November to double digits by December 9th. Health officials believe that the spike in cases is not yet a cause for major concern.
JN.1 is closely related to another omicron subvariant called BA.2.86. The CDC began tracking BA.2.86 in August and observed that some cases had a single change in the spike protein, which is responsible for infecting host cells. JN.1 was later identified as its own variant in the United States in September and has since been detected in 11 countries.
While the precise impact of JN.1 remains uncertain, health experts suggest that it may be more transmissible or better at evading the immune system compared to previous variants. The change in the spike protein could make it easier for the virus to enter cells or make it harder for the human immune system to recognize it as COVID-19.
International health experts, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have also taken note of the JN.1 variant, officially classifying it as its own variant on December 19th. However, based on the available evidence, the additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low. Nevertheless, with the arrival of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, JN.1 could contribute to an increase in respiratory infections in many countries.
The CDC reassures that the currently available COVID-19 booster shots offer protection against the JN.1 variant as it is closely related to previous variants. The spike protein targeted by vaccines plays a crucial role in the virus’s ability to infect individuals. Therefore, vaccines should effectively work against JN.1 and BA.2.86.
However, despite the availability of boosters, a significant number of Americans have chosen not to receive them. As of mid-November, only 36 million adults and 3.5 million children had received the latest booster shot, which is roughly 14% of the American population. This is in stark contrast to the nearly 70% of Americans who have completed the primary series of COVID-19 vaccines.
Cases of JN.1 have been most prevalent in Midwestern states, where vaccination rates have been lower compared to other regions. The CDC emphasizes that vaccination, along with mask-wearing and maintaining physical distance, are still the most effective ways to prevent COVID-19 infections and curb its spread. This advice applies not only to COVID-19 but also to other respiratory illnesses circulating during the holiday season.
The CDC urges individuals to get all recommended vaccines, including the flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, as soon as possible. This will provide the best protection against respiratory diseases and reduce the severity of illness if one does get sick. These preventive measures become especially important when traveling and gathering with family and friends during the holiday season.
In conclusion, the emergence of the JN.1 variant before the holidays raises concerns about an increase in COVID-19 infections. However, the CDC and international health experts believe that current vaccines and preventive measures are still effective in mitigating the spread of the variant. It is crucial for individuals to prioritize vaccination and adhere to recommended preventive measures to protect themselves and their communities during this holiday season.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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