Covid JN.1 variant: Is the new virus a cause to panic? Expert reveals

A new variant of covid has created havoc across the world. JN.1 variant has also made its way to India and many have been affected by the virus. More than 100 cases of the new covid variant have been detected in many states including Kerala and Delhi.

Is the new variant a cause for alarm and what is the best way to not transmit it? We at Editorji spoke to Dr Venkat Ramesh, Infectious Disease Physician, regarding its characteristics and transmissibility. The doctor also revealed if the virus is a cause to panic.

Is there a cause for panic?

Dr Venkat Ramesh revealed that there is no need to worry and precautions is the best way to ensure you stay safe. He told us, "As of now, there is really no need to be panicked or alarmed, we need to be cautious and vigilant. But certainly do not need to panic. The month of January will give us some clarity in terms of which direction we are headed. As infectious disease physicians, we have not seen an increase in the number of cases due to covid in our hospitals in case of patients being admitted with covid."

He further added, Another thing I would like to emphasise is that the three doses of vaccine may not provide gove great protection against infection with this new variant but it will definitely protect against serious infection, severe disease, ICU admission, and death. So will past infections also. So in that sense, as a country and society we are well protected."

Also watch: Covid-19 JN.1 variant: Do you need booster shots to fight surge? Expert weighs in