​JN.1 variant accounts for almost half of the COVID cases in the US; these are the common symptoms

As per the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC), the JN.1 variant, the new subvariant of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus, is responsible for 44.2% of the COVID cases in the US currently. There are concerns over the rising cases of COVID in India as well. A total of 22 cases of the variant have been detected so far. The presence of JN.1 variant is the highest in the Northeast U.S. including New Jersey and New York. While in the West (Arizona, California, Nevada), it accounts for about 41%, in the mid-Atlantic (including Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia), this new variant accounts for about 39% of cases.

As per the US CDC, JN.1’s continued growth suggests that the variant is either more transmissible or better at evading our immune systems than other circulating variants. It warns the vulnerable section of population to stay safe from the infection. "COVID-19 remains a serious public health threat, especially for people at higher risk of severe disease, such as older adults, infants, and people with certain disabilities and underlying health conditions," it warns.
“It is gradually becoming dominant”: Former AIIMS Director on COVID JN.1 variant​

The symptom of JN.1 variant remains the same as other variants. People should be careful about the classic signs of the infection which are: fever or chills, cough, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, headache, muscle aches, difficulty breathing, fatigue, new loss of taste or smell, brain fog, upset stomach, mild diarrhea, and vomiting.

While global attention is on the JN.1 variant, the second most common variant in the US is the HV.1. It is currently responsible for more than 20% of the COVID cases, the second highest share of the infection by a COVID variant. HV.1 remained the dominant variant until mid of December after which JN.1 replaced it. HV.1 is a descendant of the EG.5 variant which is also known as Eris, another dominant variant seen in the US in October.

India reports a total of 628 fresh COVID cases in 24 hours. 1 death has also been reported. This takes the number of active COVID cases in the country to 4,054 a big spike in recent months. The first JN.1 infection in the country was reported in Kerala on December 8. Since then the government is actively monitoring the COVID situation.

To stay safe during COVID-19, follow these guidelines:

Wear masks in crowded or indoor settings, especially if unvaccinated or in areas with high transmission.

Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

Maintain physical distance from others, particularly in crowded spaces.

Stay updated on local guidelines and follow public health recommendations.

Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. If symptomatic, stay home and seek medical advice.