In the latest Covid-19 update, India has reported 656 new cases in the past 24 hours, signaling a decline from the previous day’s count of 752 cases. The active cases in the country have risen to 3,742, as per data from the Union health ministry. The total caseload stands at 4.50 crore (4,50,08,620).
Within the same timeframe, Kerala reported one new Covid-related death, bringing the death toll to 5,33,333, with a case fatality rate of 1.19 percent. On a positive note, the number of recoveries has increased to 4,44,71,545, maintaining a national recovery rate of 98.81 percent, as highlighted on the health ministry’s website.
Amidst growing concerns about the JN.1 variant of Covid-19, India has identified 22 cases of this new variant, with the initial case found in a 79-year-old woman in Kerala. Out of the total cases, 19 have been reported in Goa, one each in Kerala and Maharashtra, while details of one case are yet to be disclosed.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorized the JN.1 variant, a descendant of the Omicron virus, as a ‘variant of interest.’ However, the global health body emphasizes that the overall risk posed by JN.1 remains low based on current evidence.
Experts advise vigilance for symptoms such as cough, cold, throat pain, headache, loose motions, and mild breathlessness. While caution is recommended, there is no need for panic at this point, according to Dr. Randeep Guleria, former AIIMS director and senior pulmonologist. Dr. Guleria reassures that while JN.1 is more transmissible, it is not causing severe infections or hospitalizations. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure collective well-being.
