Is COVID-19 making a comeback in India? Experts weigh in; know how different JN.1 variant is from older subvariants
Amid the spike in COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Hong Kong, China, and Thailand, experts discuss whether India should be worried about the new JN. 1 variant. Know how different it is from older subvariants of covid.
Is COVID-19 back? After over five long years of wreaking havoc across the globe, another variant, JN.1 of COVID-19, is gripping the South-Asian countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, China, and Thailand. However, India is no exception, as 164 fresh cases of COVID-19 have been reported. This has left people concerned about the dangers of the new subvariant.
The surge in cases is largely attributed to the spread of new Omicron subvariants, including JN.1 and its associated descendants, leading to increased vigilance among health authorities. The rise in cases is linked to waning immunity, with a periodic wave that is anticipated.
After Indian actress Shilpa Shirodkar revealed that she tested positive for COVID-19 on her Instagram on Monday, the concerns in India spiked even more. However, on May 19, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported that currently there are 93 active COVID-19 cases in India, and the country has not observed a significant rise domestically. But should India be concerned?
How different is the JN.1 strain from earlier strains of COVID-19?
JN.1 is a descendant of the Omicron BA.2.86 lineage, which was identified in August 2023. Additionally, the World Health Organisation (WHO) labelled it as a Variant of Interest in 2023. ¡°This variant doesn¡¯t cause any fatal complications, unlike other variants of COVID-19, such as breathlessness,¡± says Dr Harish Chafle, Senior Consultant Intensivist, Chest Physician, Bronchoscopist and sleep disorders specialist, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai.
The JN.1 variant, a sublineage of Omicron, is currently contributing to a rise in COVID-19 cases across parts of Asia, including India. While, according to Dr. Sheela Chakravarthy, Director - Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, ¡°Experts add that the variants being seen in India are not more virulent than before. Yet, the authorities are keeping a watchful eye on the situation and are bracing for a probable increase in cases of flu-like symptoms in the coming months from variants LF.7 and NB.1.8, which are derivatives of JN.1.¡±
Credit: X | @GlobalXInt
Should India be concerned amid the surge in the JN.1 strain of COVID-19?
The current surge in the number of COVID-19 cases has become a growing matter of concern across India. According to a News18 report, doctors in Mumbai have noted a slight uptick in mild infections, particularly among young individuals. However, there is no indication of a fresh wave so far. ¡°India does not appear to be worried much about the JN.1 variant of COVID-19 yet. The Health Ministry states that the COVID-19 situation in India is in check, with just 257 active cases as of May 19, largely mild and not severe enough to need hospitalisation,¡± adds Dr. Chakravarthy.
Symptoms of JN.1 variant of COVID-19:
Dr. Chafle lists the symptoms of the JN.1 variant and says, ¡°The symptoms that one can suffer from are cough, cold, runny nose, fever, gastrointestinal trouble, loss of smell and taste, fatigue, and headache.¡±
¡°So, don¡¯t panic and ensure to take all the necessary precautions recommended by the expert. Even though the variant is mild, it is imperative to take caution,¡± he adds.
Covid-19 Update: India reports 164 new cases this week¡ª69 in Kerala, 44 in Maharashtra, 34 in Tamil Nadu. Total active cases: 257 . All cases are mild, but LF.7 & NB.1.8 subvariants are under watch. Stay safe: mask up, wash hands, and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.¡ https://t.co/uMyBJ3o3W5
¡ª Dr Aakriti (@draakriti01) May 20, 2025
Tips to prevent COVID-19 infection
To prevent COVID-19 infection, follow the protocol mentioned below:
- Mask up
- Sanitise your hands
- Mainatian social distancing
- Make sure to get vaccinated
- Take a booster dose
- Don¡¯t skip vaccination, fearing the side effects.
- Pay attention to your well-being
- Isolate yourself from others if you have symptoms of COVID-19
- Avoid being in crowded places and around sick people
- Maintain good personal hygiene
- Be attentive when it comes to your health
Sneha is a dedicated writer with a passion for storytelling that enthrals and inspires the readers. With a background in Health and Wellness, she brings a unique perspective to every narrative. As a journalist, she aims to find solutions with authenticity and credibility.
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