In the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, the emergence of the JN. 1 variant has set off alarm bells as it is temporarily the dominant form of the virus worldwide.
Health experts, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have identified two additional symptoms associated with this variant, highlighting the need for continued vigilance.
The CDC has previously cautioned that the JN.1 strain is thriving in various countries, including the UK, the US, Iceland, Portugal, and Spain, and is spreading rapidly in France, China, and India. While the variant is still being studied, health officials fear it could pose a serious health threat.
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics has revealed that, in addition to the commonly reported COVID symptoms such as runny nose, cough, headache, weakness, and muscle ache, individuals infected with the JN.1 variant have reported experiencing trouble sleeping and heightened anxiety.
READ MORE: Covid cases rise as hotspots pop up across the UK: Newest case numbers where you live
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The Winter Coronavirus Infection Study’s most recent update notes an increase in the prevalence of the JN.1 variant in England and Scotland, particularly in the two weeks leading up to December 13, 2023.
Notably, fewer people (only two to three percent of Brits) are reporting a loss of taste and smell, a symptom commonly associated with earlier variants.
Professor Thomas Russo, head of the infectious disease branch at the University at Buffalo in New York, expressed concern about possible increased transmissibility of JN. 1 and emphasized the need for updated vaccines.
He told Prevention. com: “The updated vaccine is closer to JN. 1 than our previous vaccine, the hope is that even if we see more cases with JN. 1, the updated vaccine will protect against serious disease. »
As the winter season progresses, fitness officials are urging those who are not vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 to take precautions. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has introduced a campaign called “Get Winter Strong”, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England.
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While millions of people have gotten flu shots and COVID booster shots, a significant number of eligible adults, including pregnant women, other people with existing physical conditions, and 2- and 3-year-olds, do not. They have not yet benefited from these preventive measures.
Dr Mary Ramsay from the UKHSA highlights the importance of vaccination, saying: “No one should miss out on festive celebrations with friends and family this winter, and vaccines will offer the best protection. ”
“I urge everyone who is eligible to sign up along with the millions of people who have benefited from their free vaccination to offer to enjoy winter to the fullest. Don’t delay, book an e-appointment today and arm yourself against the threat of serious illness. “
Reported symptoms related to the JN. 1 variant include runny nose, cough, headache, weakness or fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat, sleep disturbances, and increased worry or anxiety.
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