A New COVID-19 Variant, JN.1, Detected in the U.S.
A new variant of COVID-19, known as JN.1, has been identified in the United States. This variant, which is causing an increasing number of cases worldwide, is raising concerns due to its high level of contagion.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is once again mutating. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently highlighted the JN.1 variant in a report. While JN.1 is not currently widespread in the U.S., experts in infectious diseases have flagged it for further investigation. So, what exactly is JN.1 and why is it receiving attention?
What is JN.1?
JN.1 is a variant of COVID-19 that originated from BA.2.86, according to Amesh Adalja, M.D., an infectious disease expert at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. Thomas Russo, M.D., a professor and chief of infectious diseases at the University at Buffalo, explains that BA.2.86 raised concerns when it was initially detected due to its over 20 mutations on the spike protein, which is used by SARS-CoV-2 to infect cells. JN.1 has an additional mutation on its spike protein, making it a further evolution of the BA.2.86 variant.
JN.1 Symptoms
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that JN.1 causes different symptoms compared to previous variants of COVID-19. According to William Schaffner, M.D., a professor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, JN.1 is an Omicron variant and appears to have similar symptoms to previous variants. These symptoms can include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, and loss of taste or smell, among others.
How Contagious is JN.1?
The level of contagion of JN.1 is still being determined. Dr. Russo suggests that JN.1’s parent variant, BA.2.86, may be more transmissible than previous variants. As JN.1 is a derivative of BA.2.86, there is concern that it may also be highly transmissible. However, Dr. Adalja points out that BA.2.86 did not extensively spread when it was first detected, indicating that there is currently no evidence that JN.1 will behave differently.
Should We Be Worried About JN.1?
At present, JN.1 accounts for less than 0.1% of COVID-19 cases, as reported by the CDC. However, it is gaining prevalence in other countries such as Iceland, Portugal, Spain, the Netherlands, and France. Dr. Russo highlights that JN.1 has a spike protein mutation that makes it more immune evasive than its parent variants, making it a formidable variant of concern. Due to its differences from other strains, there is an increased risk of infection.
Will the COVID-19 Vaccine Protect Against JN.1?
It is currently uncertain if the existing COVID-19 vaccines will provide full protection against JN.1. The CDC suggests that the updated COVID-19 vaccine, which targets the spike protein, should be effective against JN.1. Early data also indicates that the updated 2023-2024 vaccines are capable of blocking BA.2.86. Dr. Russo adds that the hope is that the updated vaccine will protect against severe disease even if more cases of JN.1 arise.
How to Protect Against JN.1 and Other Variants
Dr. Adalja emphasizes that JN.1 and other COVID-19 variants will continue to circulate as respiratory viruses, making them part of the “new normal.” However, Dr. Schaffner suggests some measures to reduce the risk of infection. He urges individuals to take advantage of the updated COVID booster, as its acceptance rates have been low. Those at high risk of COVID-19 complications should consider wearing masks in public indoor spaces and consult their doctors to see if they qualify for antiviral medications if infected. The key is to ensure that high-risk individuals are protected with updated vaccines and have swift access to antiviral treatments.
Written by Korin Miller, a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends. Her work can be found in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and other publications. Korin holds a master’s degree from American University and dreams of owning a teacup pig and taco truck.
