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div id=”pcl-full-content”>Maharashtra has seen an uptick in Covid-19 cases with 19 fresh cases reported on Friday, bringing the total number of active cases to 68, amid concerns over the new Covid variant JN.1. The state has so far reported one case of JN.1. With Christmas approaching, healthcare experts have expressed concern over a potential jump in cases with the Test Positivity Rate (TPR) rising from 1.6 per cent on Thursday to 2.8 per cent on Friday.
In an interview with The Indian Express, Dr Pradeep Awate, former State Surveillance Officer who oversaw the previous Covid waves in Maharashtra, said that while the new strain may push up cases slightly mainly due to environmental factors, it is unlikely to exhibit the same virulence and mass casualties that was seen before.
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Is the new JN.1 variant more dangerous? Should the increase in transmission rates be a cause for concern?
The emergence of new variants doesn’t inherently signify heightened lethality or virulence. Presently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the JN.1 coronavirus strain as a “variant of interest” but has said it did not pose much threat to public health. Despite being reported from diverse locations — US, Singapore, China and India — there’s no conclusive evidence indicating increased infection, severity or heightened hospital admissions. Data indicates a modest uptick in transmission rates, yet without a simultaneous rise in the proportion of virulent strains. Hence, there’s no imminent cause for alarm.
Will the previously administered Covid-19 vaccines reduce the severity of the new variant in infected patients?
Indeed, existing vaccines prove effective against new Covid-19 variants globally. It’s vital to recognise their primary aim: lessening disease severity rather than ensuring complete prevention. Despite not granting full immunity, these vaccines significantly reduce illness severity, which is supported by expert opinion. Their efficacy underscores their crucial role in diminishing disease severity, prioritising attenuation over transmission prevention, according to expert consensus.
Will antibodies from vaccination and past infections provide protection against emerging Covid variants?
Antibodies generated through vaccination and prior infections play a crucial role in safeguarding against emerging Covid variants in Maharashtra. These antibodies, a result of the immune response, contribute to the defence mechanism by recognising and neutralising the virus. This dual protection, acquired through both vaccination and natural infection, enhances the body’s resilience and effectiveness in combating evolving strains, reinforcing immunity and mitigating the impact of potential variants.
What precautionary measures should people take, especially considering the JN.1 variant, during the Christmas period?
Regarding the JN.1 variant, it is imperative to stress that there is no reason to panic. However, targeted precautions are necessary, especially for individuals aged 60 and above or those with underlying health conditions. This demographic should exercise caution, particularly if exhibiting influenza-like symptoms before Christmas. It is advisable for individuals in this age group or cohort to abstain from attending public events or gatherings, adhering to recommended Covid behavioural guidelines in the festival season.
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