CDC reports rapid spread of JN.1 subvariant, now dominant in the US

The JN.1 subvariant of COVID-19 has swiftly become the predominant strain in the United States, leading to a surge in new cases, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The variant has also gained prevalence in the United Kingdom, France, China, India, and various European countries. While the CDC notes an increase in total cases and, to a lesser extent, hospital admissions, it is uncertain whether JN.1 infections cause distinct symptoms compared to other variants.

Health experts emphasize that the types and severity of symptoms typically depend on an individual's immunity and overall health rather than the specific variant causing the infection. Common symptoms associated with the JN.1 subvariant, as outlined by the CDC, include cough, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, fever, loss of taste and smell, runny or stuffy nose, fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and mild gastrointestinal symptoms.

Data from the UK Office for National Statistics reveals that runny nose, cough, headache, weakness or fatigue, muscle pain, sore throat, sleep problems, and worry or anxiety are among the most reported symptoms among Covid-19 patients. Notably, the prevalence of loss of taste and smell, once considered a hallmark of COVID-19, has decreased to 2-3% in infected individuals in the UK.

The sudden rise of the JN.1 subvariant raises concerns about its potential increased contagion or immune evasion capabilities. However, based on available data, it does not appear to be more aggressive than other circulating variants, according to the CDC. Health authorities worldwide emphasize the importance of adhering to existing preventive measures for COVID-19, with current vaccines and treatments still proving effective against the JN.1 subvariant. The CDC reiterates that the rise of this subvariant does not alter existing recommendations for prevention and treatment.

[Information from AMPA]