The JN.1 strain of Covid, which has become dominant globally, is now associated with two new symptoms as reported by patients. This strain, flourishing in countries like the UK, US, Iceland, Portugal, Spain, France, China, and India, is being closely monitored by health officials due to concerns about its potential impact on public health.
People Report New Symptoms
According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics, in addition to the common symptoms of Covid such as runny noses, coughs, headaches, and weakness, individuals infected with the JN.1 strain have also reported experiencing trouble sleeping and anxiety. These new symptoms mark a shift in the clinical presentation of the virus.
The Winter Coronavirus Infection Study noted an increase in the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in England and Scotland in the weeks leading up to December 13, 2023. Interestingly, there has been a decrease in reports of loss of taste and smell among those infected.
Thomas Russo, a professor and chief of infectious diseases at the University at Buffalo in New York, has expressed concerns about the transmissibility of the JN.1 strain.
He notes that JN.1, being a derivative of BA.2.86, may be more transmissible than previous variants. However, he also highlights that the updated vaccine is closer to JN.1, which could potentially protect against severe disease even if cases rise.
In light of these developments, health authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been actively encouraging vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and those with health conditions, to get vaccinated against flu and Covid-19. As of the report, millions of eligible adults in England have yet to receive their vaccinations.
The emergence of new symptoms and the spread of the JN.1 strain highlight the need for continuous monitoring and research to effectively combat the virus.
