Islamabad: Four cases of the new variant of the coronavirus, known as JN.1, have been identified in Pakistan as the variant continues to spread in various countries worldwide.
According to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Health, all four individuals exhibited mild symptoms but have successfully recovered without any complications.
The World Health Organization has designated the JN.1 sub-variant of the Omicron strain as a Variant of Interest (VoI). This sub-variant is swiftly becoming dominant, replacing other Omicron sub-variants globally. In response to the detection of this sub-variant in neighboring India and other countries, health authorities in Pakistan have implemented mandatory testing of 2% of inbound passengers for COVID-19. The collected samples are subjected to genome sequencing to identify the JN.1 sub-variant.
The Caretaker Federal Health Minister Dr Nadeem Jan addressed the situation, reassuring the public that there is no need for panic, emphasizing that 90% of the Pakistani population is vaccinated against COVID-19. He emphasized that strict monitoring of the situation is underway, with an effective screening system in place at international airports, as well as on all domestic and international routes.
He further advised the public to adopt precautionary measures such as wearing masks, maintaining distance, and practicing other preventive measures to avoid the spread of diseases like coronavirus or flu during the winter season.
It is noteworthy that the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the JN.1 sub-variant of the Omicron strain as a Variant of Interest (VoI). A VoI is a classification for a new variant that exhibits certain characteristics that warrant closer monitoring due to its potential impact on public health.
In the case of JN.1, it is noted for its rapid spread and is emerging as the dominant sub-variant, outpacing other Omicron sub-variants on a global scale.
As a response to the detection of the JN.1 sub-variant in nearby India and other countries, health authorities in Pakistan have taken preventive measures. They have instituted mandatory testing for COVID-19 among 2% of inbound passengers, and the collected samples undergo genome sequencing to specifically identify the JN.1 sub-variant.
The WHO has observed that the “rapidly increasing spread” of JN.1 across the globe is notable enough to distinguish it from its predecessor, BA.2.86, which has a slower rate of spread compared to JN.1. However, JN.1 has not been found to cause distinct or more severe symptoms
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