WHO describes JN1 variant of COVID as variant of interest, claims it poses low risk

COVID 19 JN.1:  The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Tuesday that it had categorised the JN.1 coronavirus strain as a "variant of interest." However, WHO also emphasised that this particular variant does not currently pose a significant threat to public health. Assessing the available evidence, the WHO stated, "The additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low."

Initially identified as part of the parent lineage BA.2.86, JN.1 has been reclassified as a distinct variant of interest. WHO reiterated that existing vaccines remain effective in safeguarding against severe illness and fatalities caused by JN.1, as well as other variants circulating within the COVID-19 virus.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported earlier this month that the JN.1 subvariant accounts for an estimated 15% to 29% of COVID-19 cases as of December 8, according to their latest projections. However, the CDC stressed that there is currently no evidence suggesting that JN.1 presents an elevated risk to public health compared to other variants in circulation. They also indicated that an updated vaccine formulation could potentially offer continued protection against this variant. The initial detection of JN.1 in the US dates back to September, as reported by the CDC.

Separately, China identified seven cases of the COVID subvariant last week. Despite these developments, global health authorities like WHO and CDC underscore the importance of continued vigilance and monitoring of emerging variants to ensure the effectiveness of existing vaccines and to respond effectively to potential changes in the virus's behaviour.