Covid Cases In India: Nation Logs 157 Cases Of Omicron Sub-Variant JN.1

India on Thursday recorded a total of 157 cases of the Covid-19 sub-variant JN.1, as per the latest data from INSACOG. Kerala leads with 78 cases, followed by Gujarat with 34.

The presence of this sub-variant has been observed in nine states and Union territories. Alongside Kerala and Gujarat, Goa reported 18 cases, Karnataka recorded eight, Maharashtra and Rajasthan each identified seven and five cases respectively, while Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Delhi reported four, two, and one case respectively, as detailed by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).

December saw 141 Covid cases with the JN.1 variant, while November had 16 such instances, according to INSACOG.

Although the World Health Organisation (WHO) has labelled JN.1 as a “variant of interest” due to its escalating spread, it assesses the global public health risk as “low”. Initially, JN.1 was considered part of the BA.2.86 sub-lineages. Yet, its rapid increase in prevalence across multiple countries has garnered attention.

In light of these developments, the Centre has directed states and Union territories to remain vigilant, considering the rise in Covid cases and the emergence of the JN.1 sub-variant in India.

Three New Covid Cases Reported In Odisha, Total Tally Reaches Eight

Odisha’s public health director, Niranjan Mishra, confirmed on Thursday that the state has recorded three additional Covid-19 cases, bringing the cumulative count to eight, news agency PTI reported. 

As per the report, Mishra stated that all eight individuals are currently undergoing home isolation and assured the public that there’s no cause for alarm, emphasising that no patients have required hospitalisation in the state so far.

Highlighting the state’s proactive approach, Mishra mentioned, “All districts have intensified Covid-19 testing. Yesterday alone, 690 samples were examined, resulting in three positive cases.” He further referenced national data, noting that 92% of Covid-infected individuals are in home isolation, with only those possessing underlying health conditions necessitating hospital admission.