Everything you need to know about the infection

Scientists around the world are concerned about a new strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) that could be more contagious than previous strains. The JN.1 strain of coronavirus was recently detected in Kerala. The case was detected in a positive RT-PCR sample from Karakolam in Thiruvananthapuram district of the southern state on December 8. The 79-year-old had mild symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) and has since recovered from Covid. This variant is causing infection rates to rise around the world again and is ringing alarm bells among health authorities.

The Omicron subvariant known as BA.2.86 or Pirola is believed to be the COVID JN.1 variant. The condition was first detected in the United States in September this year. Seven cases of the specific subvariant were found in China on December 15, according to Reuters. “Although BA.2.86 and BA.2.1 look very different because of the way the variants are named, there is only one change between JN.1 and BA.2.86 in the spike protein.” Center for Disease Control He said in the latest update.

The spike protein, referred to as “spike” because it resembles the small bumps on the surface of the virus, plays an important role in the virus’s ability to infect humans. According to the CDC, vaccines that target the virus’s spike protein should also work against JN.1 and BA.2.86.

According to news agency ANI, Dr Ujjwal Prakash, Senior Consultant in Chest Medicine at Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi, addressed the emergence of this variant and stated that although vigilance is crucial, there is no need for people to panic. He added, “You have to be more vigilant. I don’t think there is a reason to panic or do anything more than just be vigilant.”

Among the symptoms that have been recorded in patients so far are fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and in some cases, minor problems in the digestive system. The doctor added that most patients suffer from mild upper respiratory symptoms, which usually improve within four to five days.

“The first way forward is to test for this new type of coronavirus if possible, and then we have to see if they have Covid or any other viral infection. The symptoms are almost too common with other viral infections. They may be a little more serious. Some people have COVID,” the doctor said. “Patients may experience some symptoms that are more severe than others, but the infection is more or less similar to any other viral infection,” Prakash told ANI.

Regarding the emergence, he said, “I don’t think I would be wise enough to say that the new wave of coronavirus is coming. It may disappear like any other viral infection. Let’s watch and keep our fingers crossed.” JN.1. He advised people to take precautions by wearing masks and getting tested if they detect symptoms of the viral infection. The doctor added that if symptoms persist, individuals are encouraged to isolate themselves from the general public.