New Covid-19 Variant JN-1: What You Need to Know

JN-1 is a sub-variant of the coronavirus first detected in Luxembourg in December 2023. It is a descendant of the Pirola variant (BA.2.86), which stems from the Omicron sub-variant. JN-1 has an additional mutation (L455S) in the spike protein that may increase its infectivity and ability to evade immune responses. However, experts have said that JN-1 is not more severe or dangerous than other known variants.

JN-1 Cases in India

According to sources, 63 cases of JN-1 have been detected in India as of December 26, 2023. Most of these cases are from Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, and Delhi. The health ministry is monitoring the situation and taking steps to prevent the spread of the new variant.

COVID-19 Situation in Delhi and India

Delhi reported 259 new Covid-19 cases and two deaths on Monday, December 27, 2023. The positivity rate has risen to 25.4%, indicating a high level of transmission. The health minister urged people to wear masks and follow Covid-appropriate behavior. He also mentioned that individuals with flu-like symptoms should get tested and isolate themselves.

India reported 692 new COVID-19 cases and six deaths, including a well-known figure, Tamil actor-politician Vijayakanth, who passed away on Thursday in Chennai, in the last 24 hours. This brings the total count to 4,50,10,944, and the death toll is now 5,33,346. The active caseload has jumped to 4,054, with Kerala contributing the most. The health ministry stated that current vaccines still protect against severe illness and death from JN-1 and other variants.

Preventive Measures Against JN-1 and Covid-19

The World Health Organization (WHO) advises using all available tools to prevent infections and severe disease, including:

• Wearing a mask when in crowded, enclosed, or poorly ventilated areas, and keeping a safe distance from others.
• Cover coughs and sneezes, clean hands regularly, and stay updated on Covid-19 and flu vaccinations, especially if at high risk.
• Stay home if sick and get tested if symptoms or exposure to Covid-19 or influenza occur.

Role of Healthcare NGOs in India

India faces many challenges in providing adequate and equitable healthcare to its diverse and growing population. Healthcare NGOs provide low-cost, high-quality healthcare to underprivileged and marginalized communities. They also aim to create awareness, education, and empowerment among the people about their health rights and responsibilities. Healthcare NGOs bridge the gap between the public and private healthcare sectors and support the government’s efforts to improve the health outcomes of the nation. One such healthcare NGO is My Abhinandan, which is dedicated to skill development, environmental conservation, and women’s empowerment

Contacting My Abhinandan NGO for Medical Help

My Abhinandan NGO provides a range of medical services to the needy, especially women and children. These include maternal healthcare, pediatric care, reproductive health services, and emergency response. Individuals in need of medical assistance from My Abhinandan NGO can contact us through our website, phone number, email, or social media platforms. They may also visit their nearest branch or center in New Delhi, where they can avail the services of trained and qualified doctors, nurses, and volunteers. My Abhinandan NGO strives to make healthcare accessible, affordable, and of high quality for everyone.