A new subvariant of Omicron, known as JN.1 and its descendants, is contributing to a resurgence of COVID-19 cases across several Asian countries. India has also reported a notable uptick, with over 250+ active cases recorded across various states[1].
First identified in August 2023, JN.1 evolved from the Omicron lineage (with an additional L455S mutation in the spike compared to BA.2.86). The current global surge in COVID-19 cases is primarily driven by the JN.1 variant and its descendants, notably LF.7, NB.1.8[2,3]. In contrast, the LP.8.1 variant is currently dominant in the United States [4] and has also been reported in parts of Asia, though it has not emerged as the leading strain across the continent.
Let’s address some of the key questions around this new COVID variant
1. Are the symptoms of the JN.1 COVID-19 variant similar to those of other COVID-19 variants?
Yes. The symptoms of the JN.1 variant are generally similar to Omicron, with mild respiratory signs like cough, sore throat, congested nose, difficulty breathing, headaches, and fatigue, and sometimes fever. Unlike the Delta variant, which was known for causing more severe illness, JN. 1, like Omicron, is associated with milder symptoms in most healthy individuals.
Please note:
Loss of taste or smell occurs less frequently with JN.1 and its descendants, similar to Omicron[5]
If you feel unwell, consult a doctor to stay safe.
2. Should India Be Worried?
While the rise in cases is notable, health experts indicate that the situation in India remains under control. Most reported cases are mild, and there has been no significant increase in hospitalizations. However, continued vigilance is essential to prevent further spread.
3. How severe is the JN-1 COVID-19 variant?
According to currently available information, there’s a low risk of severe illness due to this variant. People who belong to risk groups should still be cautious and take preventive measures.
According to the WHO, the JN.1variant has the following characteristics:[6]
-A high level of risk for transmission.
-A moderate level of risk for immunity escape.
-A low level of risk for severe disease compared to other variants.
4. Can the currently available COVID-19 test detect the JN.1 variant?
Yes. Currently available tests can detect this variant, as the parts of the virus targeted by the test have remained the same. An RT-PCR test continues to be the gold standard for detection>
5. How do I know if I have been infected by JN.1?
While COVID-19 tests can detect the JN.1 variant, they cannot always specify which variant you have. To know the exact variant, such as JN.1, a special lab test (genetic sequencing test) is needed. These are mainly used for research and tracking virus spread, not for routine diagnosis.
JN.1 symptoms can feel like the flu or seasonal allergies. If you’re unsure, it’s best to get tested. This helps you get the right care and protect your loved ones.
6. Do Vaccines Work Against JN.1?
Since there is only a single change between JN.1 and BA.2.86 in the spike protein on the virus’s surface, which helps the virus infect people; and since the spike protein is also the part that existing vaccines target, current vaccines should work against JN.1[5].
Your Best Bet: Stay Protected With Simple Precautions
-Maintain good hand hygiene practices. Wash your hands regularly with soap and keep a sanitiser handy.
-Always wear masks in crowded places, especially if you are sick.
-Take extra care of people at higher risk, including pregnant women, the elderly, and loved ones with chronic conditions.
-Monitor for symptoms and seek medical advice if needed.
With COVID-19 cases on the rise again, it’s wise to keep your essentials stocked – just in case you or your family need them. Shop COVID Essentials!
7. What to do if you live with a high-risk person?
People with weakened immune systems, seniors (especially those over 60), pregnant women, individuals with diabetes, heart disease, lung conditions, and unvaccinated individuals are more vulnerable to complications. You should:
-Wear a mask indoors if you have symptoms
-Ventilate shared spaces
-Sanitize frequently touched surfaces, door handles, taps, and flush buttons regularly
-Not share utensils
-Keep a separate towel for each family member to prevent cross-infection
-Close the toilet lid before flushing to prevent droplets from spreading (aerosol effect).
If you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms, do consult a doctor and:
-Stay at home and isolate yourself from people at risk
-Rest as much as possible
-Drink plenty of water
-Take Paracetamol to help lower your temperature
-For cough relief, sit upright instead of lying on your back
Stay informed, stay one step ahead of COVID-19.
(The article is written by Dr. Syeda Aafia, Team Lead and reviewed by Dr. Swati Mishra, Director, Clinical Health & Content, Medical Affairs)
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References
1. COVID-19 situation in India under control, say official sources amid scare in Singapore, Hong Kong [Internet]. Press Trust of India. 2025 May 19 [cited 2025 May 23]. Available from: https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/covid-19-situation-in-india-under-control-say-official-sources-amid-scare-in-singapore-hong-kong/2569338
2. Ministry of Health, Singapore. Update on COVID-19 situation [Internet]. Singapore: Ministry of Health; [cited 2025 May 23]. Available from: https://www.moh.gov.sg/newsroom/update-on-covid-19-situation-
3. World Health Organization. WHO COVID-19 Dashboard: Variants [Internet]. 2024 Apr 15 [cited 2025 May 23]. Available from: https://data.who.int/dashboards/covid19/variants
4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee Meeting: May 22, 2025 – Briefing Document [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): FDA; 2025 May 22 [cited 2025 May 23]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/media/186567/download
5. Mahase E. JN.1 COVID variant: What do we know? BMJ [Internet]. 2024;383:p2975. Available from: https://www.bmj.com/content/bmj/383/bmj.p2975.full.pdf
6. Mehta NS, Mytton OT, Mullins EWS, Fowler TA, Falconer CL, Murphy OB, et al. SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19): What do we know about children? A systematic review. Clin Infect Dis [Internet]. 2020 Jul 7 [cited 2025 May 23];71(9):2469–79. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9129133/