2023-12-23 15:00:00
The World Health Organization has issued a statement on the rapid spread of the new Corona virus variant “JN.1”. In the following document, Dr. Tayeb Hamdi, physician and health policy and systems researcher, discusses several facts about this variant.
“JN.1” is considered a more contagious variant, of no particular seriousness, posing no threat to social life. However, significant efforts are being made to protect vulnerable people from this “epidemic triad”: COVID JN.1, seasonal influenza and RSV infection.
Why talk about JN.1?
This variant was discovered in the United States in late August 2023 and is currently experiencing a sharp increase in cases in many countries. The share of JN.1 among new COVID cases in some countries (United States, France, etc.) reaches 50%, becoming dominant within a few weeks. It is likely to become predominant in many parts of the world in the coming weeks.
What is the JN.1 variant?
This is a sub-variant of BA.2.86 Pirola, an Omega lineage, classified by the WHO as a variant of interest, slightly more advanced than the surveillance phase and less worrying than a variant of concern . It was classified as a full variant rather than a subvariant of BA.2.86 due to the acquired characteristics. Apparently, through its multiple mutations, it has acquired the ability to evade immunity against antibodies resulting from previous infection or vaccination.
What are the symptoms of the JN.1 variant, and does it cause more severe illness?
The same symptoms as the Omicron variants are observed: fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, diarrhea, vomiting, with perhaps a return of symptoms of loss of taste or smell. JN.1 appears no more serious than its predecessors in the Omicron lineage. It is likely that countries will experience an intensification of the spread of the virus, with more cases linked to increased transmission rather than increased risks from the variant itself.
Does vaccination continue to protect?
Yes, it still protects against severe disease and death despite the immune escape of JN.1. Our immunity acquired through vaccination or previous infection remains a…
protection against serious forms thanks to persistent antibodies and cellular immunity. However, vaccination no longer guarantees sufficient protection against infection. It is likely that people vaccinated or already infected with COVID-19 will be easily infected by the new variant without being at serious risk.
What can we expect in the coming weeks in Morocco and elsewhere?
The risk of infection with the “epidemic triad” is likely high at the start of the cold season, adding JN.1, which is highly contagious, to the usual winter illnesses, mainly seasonal flu and RSV infection, which causes bronchiolitis. in infants and the elderly. It is likely that these three simultaneous epidemics will put pressure on hospitals in countries with an elderly population, with a lower incidence in our country.
Who is at risk of serious illness?
People at risk are those over 65, those with chronic illnesses, serious illnesses and pregnant women. However, even young people in good health have an interest in protecting themselves to protect vulnerable people around them, avoid an avoidable health crisis and ward off the long-term risk of COVID which can affect even those who have had a very mild form of the disease.
What are the risks for social and economic life?
Life will continue as normal and smoothly. Vulnerable people must protect themselves by getting properly vaccinated against the flu (there is still time) and COVID-19, as well as by respecting prevention measures.
Are there ways to protect yourself?
There are many means, such as vaccination of vulnerable people and prevention measures. Antiviral drugs protect the most vulnerable categories if screening is carried out on time. Wearing a mask in crowded, closed or poorly ventilated places is recommended. For young people, preventive measures include staying at home as soon as symptoms appear, coughing and sneezing into your elbow or a tissue, washing your hands regularly with soap and maintaining good ventilation in the rooms.
Collected by Abdelkader El Fatouaki
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