Current Covid cases not entirely due to new variant: Expert
In view of the reports of rising Covid cases in parts of the country, Dr PV Laxmi, Professor at the School of Public Health, PGIMER, has clarified that the current infections are not caused by an entirely new variant, but stem from the existing JN.1 lineage.
According to Dr Laxmi, such mutations are a natural part of how viruses evolve over time and there is no immediate cause for alarm.
She advised that the general public remain cautious, particularly when it comes to protecting vulnerable groups. She emphasised that individuals who are infected should stay away from young children, the elderly, and those who are immuno-compromised, as these populations are at higher risk of developing complications. She pointed out that certain symptoms should not be ignored.
If anyone is experiencing respiratory difficulty or breathlessness along with fever, cough, or cold, or if they have a high fever that does not subside after four or five days, they should seek medical attention without delay.
With the onset of the season for diseases like dengue and chikungunya, she stressed that it is crucial to be equipped to manage both Covid and other seasonal illnesses simultaneously. For individuals who test positive for Covid, Dr Laxmi recommended that they isolate themselves from high-risk individuals until their symptoms resolve.
According to the Chandigarh Health Administration, all critical supplies are well stocked. Dr Suman Singh, Director of Health Services, assured that there is no shortage of essential resources and that the city has not recorded any Covid case so far. “There is no cause for alarm at this time. We are keeping a close watch on developments and will take further steps if required,” she stated.
WHO insights into new variant
According to a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report, the NB.1.8.1 sub-variant — a descendent of the Omicron JN.1 lineage — is spreading faster than other currently circulating variants. However, it shows only a slight increase in immune evasion compared to LP.8.1. While some Western Pacific Region (WPR) countries have seen a rise in cases and hospitalisations where NB.1.8.1 is prevalent, there is no evidence to suggest the variant causes greater disease severity than other Omicron variants.
Medical experts suggest that the current rise in Covid cases is linked to Omicron sub-variants like JN.1, LF.7 and NB.1.8.1. While these variants are not confirmed to be more severe or fast spreading, they could pose a greater risk to individuals with weakened immune system.
Chandigarh