JN.1 COVID Variant Spreads in India, but No Need to Panic
More Transmissible Than Earlier Strains, but Symptoms Remain Mild in Most Cases
May 25, 2025
A new COVID-19 variant, JN.1, has been detected in several parts of India and abroad, with rising cases and at least one death reported in Maharashtra. Here's what is known so far about the strain, its symptoms and how to stay protected.
The JN.1 variant is a sub-lineage of the Omicron BA.2.86 strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. JN.1 is considered more transmissible than earlier Omicron subvariants. Scientists believe this is partly due to mutations in its spike protein—particularly in the part that binds to human cells. These changes allow the virus to enter cells more efficiently and to partially escape immunity. That includes immunity from past infections and from vaccination, although vaccines still offer protection against severe illness.
Importantly, JN.1 does not appear to cause more serious disease than other recent variants.
In most people, the symptoms remain mild to moderate, and include fever, cough sore throat, fatigue, muscle pain, nasal congestion and headache. Some people also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea. Loss of taste or smell, which was more common with earlier strains, is now reported less often.
In rare cases, people may develop breathing difficulties, especially those with underlying health conditions.
Like other strains of COVID-19, JN.1 can affect people of all ages. However, the risk of complications is higher in older adults, people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease, those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women and the unvaccinated. These individuals are advised to take extra precautions, monitor their symptoms carefully and seek medical attention early if needed.
From a public health perspective, the government has taken steps to prepare for a potential increase in cases, according to media reports. Hospitals have been advised to stock up on oxygen supplies, essential medicines and COVID-19 test kits. Vaccination efforts are being encouraged, especially among high-risk groups. Surveillance systems have been asked to track cases and monitor the spread of JN.1. In some districts, local health departments are increasing testing and tracing activities to identify clusters early and prevent further transmission.
Public awareness and behaviour continue to play a vital role in managing the spread of the virus.
For those at higher risk, wearing masks in crowded or enclosed spaces—such as on public transport, in healthcare settings or during indoor gatherings—remains a simple and effective measure, according to healthcare experts. Maintaining hand hygiene, whether by washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitisers, helps reduce the risk of transmission through contaminated surfaces. People from this group are also being advised to avoid touching their faces unnecessarily and to improve ventilation indoors by keeping windows open whenever possible.
Even though JN.1 has shown some capacity to bypass immunity, vaccines continue to lower the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and death, according to experts. People who develop symptoms should isolate themselves, inform close contacts and get tested if feasible. Those who test positive should follow local health guidelines and avoid exposing others, especially the vulnerable, until they are no longer infectious.
Treatment for the JN.1 variant follows the same clinical guidelines as earlier forms of COVID-19.
Mild cases are typically managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications like paracetamol for fever and body aches. For those with moderate or severe illness—particularly individuals with underlying health conditions—doctors may prescribe antivirals. Hospitalised patients may also receive oxygen support or corticosteroids like dexamethasone if needed.
It is also important to avoid panic, as there is no reason for alarm. JN.1 spreads more easily than earlier variants but does not appear to cause more severe illness. Governments should concentrate on preparedness, testing and vaccination, while individuals are advised to continue following basic precautions.
You have just read a News Briefing by Newsreel Asia, written to cut through the noise and present a single story for the day that matters to you. Certain briefings, based on media reports, seek to keep readers informed about events across India, others offer a perspective rooted in humanitarian concerns and some provide our own exclusive reporting. We encourage you to read the News Briefing each day. Our objective is to help you become not just an informed citizen, but an engaged and responsible one.
