Corona is once again seen growing rapidly globally. Studies show that there is continuous mutation in the virus, resulting from this, the new sub-variant JN.1 of Omicron is once again increasing the risk of this infectious disease across the world. Preliminary research has found that although the JN.1 variant is not a serious pathogen, it may definitely increase the risk of rapid spread of infection in a population because, like other sub-variants of Omicron, it can easily enter the body. The disease can increase the infection by dodging the immune system.
If we look at the recent reports, we know that JN.1 has been confirmed in many countries including China, Singapore, America. The speed of spread of this new variant in some countries is very fast, which is a cause of concern for health experts. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a variant of interest given its nature.
Let us know how the situation is due to Corona around the world?
JN.1 responsible for 44 percent of cases in America
Media reports show that due to the JN.1 sub-variant, cases of infection have increased rapidly in America. A New York Times report quoted data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as saying that as of mid-December, this variant was responsible for 44% of Covid cases nationwide. Its prevalence in November was only seven percent, which means that within a month there has been a rapid increase in infections due to this variant.
What do infectious disease experts say?
US. Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, says the variant is taking some time to grow, although once it gains momentum, it is spreading widely. When a variant grows rapidly in this way, it not only speeds up the pace of infection but also increases the risk of a new variant with mutations emerging in the next few months. Therefore, at present it is important to focus on controlling the speed of JN.1.
CDC alerted
The CDC report published on December 22 underlined the danger of Covid-19. Experts said, the infection can be a serious disease for elderly people, infants, those with weak immunity, people with chronic health problems and pregnant women. According to the report, although in most of the cases JN.1 is not causing serious illness, the mistake of taking it lightly should not be made. The death toll due to this is reportedly increasing in China.
Death figures in China
According to media reports, China is reportedly seeing an increase in the death rate due to JN.1. The country's crematoriums are working around the clock due to the surge in deaths from Covid-19. However, officials are not confirming whether the deaths are related to Corona or not. Apart from the elderly, young people and children are also dying, a health official says in the report. The sudden increase of dead bodies in funeral homes is scary.
(PC: iStock)
