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WHO classifies JN.1 as “variant of interest”
Amid a global spike in cases, WHO said that it is closely observing the worldwide spread of JN.1, a COVID-19 variant
Representative image / Image - Unsplash
The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the COVID variant JN.1 as a distinct "variant of interest" (VoI) after it was reported in multiple countries, with its prevalence rapidly increasing globally.
Previously categorized under its parent strain, BA.2.86, the rapidly increasing spread of the variant alarmed some scientists earlier this year. The chief health body has therefore classified it a separate variant.
According to WHO, "the additional global public health risk posed by JN.1 is currently evaluated as low" based on the limited data presently available. "Despite this, JN.1 could increase the burden of respiratory infections in many countries with the onset of winter in the Northern Hemisphere,” the agency said in a statement.
WHO further emphasized that vaccinations against JN.1 and other circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants continue to guard against serious illness and death. Besides COVID-19, the organization also highlighted an increase in influenza, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), and frequent pediatric pneumonia.
It further advocated using all available resources to prevent infections and serious illness, such as wearing masks in crowded, enclosed, or poorly ventilated settings and maintaining a safe distance from other individuals. Additionally, it urged the global population to conceal their coughs and sneezes, often wash their hands, and maintain current COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, particularly if they are at a high risk of developing a serious illness.
WHO also declared that COVAX, the historic international mechanism for fair worldwide access to COVID-19 vaccines, which was initiated in 2020, will terminate on December 31, 2023, when COVID-19 immunizations transition to routine immunization programs.
Almost two billion vaccination doses have been distributed to 146 economies since COVAX's start in 2020, and it has prevented an estimated 2.7 million deaths in lower-income economies.
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