Covid-19 sub-strain JN 1 detected in Kerala woman

Kerala reports detection of Covid-19 sub-variant JN 1 in a 79-year-old woman with mild symptoms. Over 90% of current Covid-19 cases in India are mild. JN 1 sub-variant, a descendant of Pirola variant, has significant unique mutations in the spike protein, increasing infectivity and immune evasion. No other instances of JN 1 variant detected in India. Globally, 3,608 cases of BA.2.86 and its sub-variants reported, mainly in Europe and North America. Updated vaccines and treatments remain effective against JN 1 sub-strain, according to CDC and federal government analysis.