The spotlight is on the rapidly spreading new COVID variant JN.1 in the United States. As the nation enters the peak of the respiratory virus season, a rise in JN.1 cases is anticipated in the weeks ahead.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), JN.1 is currently the fastest-growing variant in the country, constituting over one-fifth of all infections. While HV.1 remains the prevailing strain, JN.1 is closely following. In the two weeks leading up to December 9, HV.1 constituted approximately 30% of cases, with JN.1 ranking second at approximately 21%.

JN.1 has attracted notice because of its swift rate of growth and a multitude of mutations. It is closely related to the BA.2.86 strain, also known as “Pirola,” which has been circulating since the summer.

The new variant, JN.1, has one additional mutation in its spike protein compared to its parent strain, BA.2.86. This mutation may impact JN.1’s immune escape properties. Despite its speedy expansion, JN.1 is still linked to the omicron family, which emerged in late 2021.

JN.1’s symptoms are not confirmed to be different from other variants, and it shares common COVID-19 symptoms, such as congestion, sore throat, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell.

While JN.1’s transmissibility and immune escape properties are still under scrutiny, it does not currently pose an increased public health risk compared to other variants. Nonetheless, experts recommend vigilant monitoring, particularly as COVID-19 hospitalizations increase and influenza and RSV activity continue at elevated levels.

COVID-19 tests, including rapid antigen tests and PCR tests, are expected to detect JN.1 effectively. Existing treatments and antivirals are expected to be efficacious against JN.1.

The updated COVID-19 vaccines, designed to target the omicron XBB.1.5 variant, are expected to provide increased protection against JN.1 and other variants. Vaccination remains essential in averting severe illness, hospitalization, and fatalities. Nevertheless, there is a need for enhancement in vaccination rates, particularly for the new vaccine.

To safeguard against JN.1 and other respiratory viruses, experts advise staying current with vaccinations, testing with symptoms, isolating if infected, avoiding contact with sick individuals, improving ventilation, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and practicing good hand hygiene.