ET Explains: Covid cases rising, but new strain not behind the surge
active cases rose to 3,742, according to the latest government data. A new strain "JN.1", classified as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization (WHO) last week, has been detected in India.
However, this new variant is not driving the current surge in India, as is in countries such as Singapore. From the last week of November till now only 22 cases have been reported of JN.1, less than 1%.
Experts say there will be more clarity about its expansion and pace of spread in a couple of weeks. Teena Thacker explains.
Should India be worried about the rise in cases?
Experts say there is nothing to panic as there is no increase in hospitalisation, the severity of the disease, or increase in fatalities.
Is the new variant any different from the earlier ones in terms of symptoms?
The symptoms of JN.1 are very similar to the Omicron variant — fever, nasal discharge, and sore throat.
There can be occasional gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and body aches.
Is an additional dose of vaccine required?
Experts say no additional dose of vaccine is needed for the new variant as almost everyone in India has had the infection at least two or three times so far. Most have also received at least two doses of the vaccine.
This high population-level immunity will mean that the typical pneumonia-like symptoms seen during the first and second wave are unlikely. However, for people with comorbidities, a booster may help maintain immunity over time.
What precautions should people take?
Experts stress the significance of primary preventative measures such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand hygiene.
Which vaccine is suitable and available in India that targets the latest variant?
JN.1 is a sub-lineage of the
