SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, continues to evolve and mutate, resulting in the emergence of new strains. The latest COVID-19 variant, JN.1, has recently drawn attention and appears highly transmissible, as current statistics indicate.
JN.1 was first detected in the United States in September 2023, and according to the Centre for Disease Control ( CDC), this new subvariant (JN.1) has contributed to 15–29% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. as of December.
Is the new COVID JN.1 variant more dangerous than old COVID strains like BA.2.86 and omicron B5?
Although JN.1 is closely related to the BA.2.86 COVID variant, there are changes in the spike protein, which make it unique.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the JN.1 coronavirus strain as a “variant of interest”. While the virus is reported to be highly transmissible, there is currently no clear evidence indicating any severity associated with the new COVID strain.
Symptoms of new covid strain JN.1
Reportedly, symptoms of the JN.1 variant closely resemble those of other COVID-19 variants and may include:
- sore throat,
- fever,
- runny nose,
- headache,
- fatigue.
- moderate gastrointestinal problems,
As COVID-19 evades the immune system, individuals with weakened immune systems
are at a greater risk of contracting infection and facing severe outcomes from COVID-19.
Prevention and control measures against JN.1 Variant
Given the transmissibility of COVID-19 variants, it is crucial to implement preventive measures to stay protected and minimize the spread of infection –
- According to CDC reports, COVID-19 vaccines will likely boost protection against the new covid variant JN.1.
- Wearing a mask is a crucial protective measure to ensure your safety and others in your proximity.
- Practicing good hand hygiene is vital for staying safe from COVID-19 infections. Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers after being in public places and engaging in activities like sneezing or coughing.
- Avoid social gatherings or being in crowded places.
How MIS can help with testing against New COVID strain JN.1
At MIS, we understand that the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic still looms large, especially with the emergence of its new strains. That’s why we’re equipped with a state-of-the-art testing facility to evaluate the effectiveness of products designed to eliminate COVID-19 strains. Our in-house team of virologists and senior scientists conducts thorough testing analysis, evaluating the antiviral efficacy of various products, including surface disinfectants, hand sanitizers, antiseptics, textiles, films, ceramics, and more. The test data we generate is both reproducible and accurate.
If you have any product testing needs against COVID-19 variant JN.1 or additional information on our testing facilities, please consult our experts today. We are here to help you stay informed and protected during these challenging times.
