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Covid Subvariant JN.1 Detected in Parts of Kerala, Raises Concerns About Immune Evasion and Spread. 

*KERALA* — The Covid subvariant JN.1, a descendant of BA.2.86, has been identified in certain areas of Kerala, prompting concerns about its potential impact. The India SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a nationwide network responsible for sequencing and monitoring new Covid-19 variants, has conducted surveillance in regions where JN.1 has been detected.

JN.1, first identified in the United States in September 2023, has raised alarms due to its characteristics. The National Indian Medical Association Covid Task Force's co-chairman, Rajeev Jayadevan, reported a rise in cases across India after a seven-month lull. In Kerala, while there are reports of individuals contracting Covid, the severity appears consistent with previous infections.

Genome sequencing has unveiled that JN.1 is a highly immune-evasive and fast-spreading variant. Notably, it has the capability to infect individuals who have had prior Covid infections and those who have been vaccinated. This poses challenges to existing immunity measures and vaccination efforts.

JN.1 has been reported in several countries, including India, which maintains international connectivity through travel. The discovery of this variant underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance, genomic sequencing, and the need for vigilant public health measures to address emerging threats in the fight against Covid-19. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and adapting strategies to curb the potential spread of JN.1 in the affected regions.