COVID Variant JN.1 Spreading

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS AND PROTECT YOURSELF DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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COVID cases are on the rise again across much of the United States. The season for flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), colds, and COVID cases is in full swing, and according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), infection rates have been steadily increasing.

Since the virus arrived in the United States over three years ago, a long list of COVID-19 variants and mutations has developed, contributing to the persistence of infections despite advances in preventive care, treatments, and vaccines. The latest COVID variant has been named JN.1.

This is one of those mutations that is currently spreading across the country and other countries. Like other circulating strains, JN.1 descends from Omicron, but it appears to be more contagious than some other forms of COVID, as indicated by its rapid spread. This variant is currently the second-largest source of COVID cases.

Protection during the Holidays

JN.1 was first detected in September and has been recorded in 12 countries so far, according to the CDC. It now accounts for more than one-fifth of all cases as of December 9. The variant is now responsible for between 15% and 29% of COVID cases, a significant increase from the previously reported 8%.

CDC spokespersons note that JN.1 is a health factor to consider when planning family visits this holiday season. The rapid spread of JN.1 indicates that it may be more easily transmitted, either due to being more transmissible or better at evading existing immunities.

Vaccine Fights JN.1

There is no evidence that JN.1 causes more severe illness or has significantly different symptoms than other circulating variants. Some may easily mistake symptoms of a mild case with other common wintertime illnesses, such as the flu, cold, or respiratory infection.

According to the CDC, the latest COVID-19 vaccine and treatments are expected to work against JN.1. Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing are signs of a more serious infection and should be treated by a medical professional. Meanwhile, the severity of symptoms depends more on each person’s immunity and health history than on the variant they contract.