JN. 1 COVID variant warning: With the rapidly rising cases of the new sub-variant of COVID-19, Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-Chair of the IMA COVID Task Force, highlighted concerns regarding its impact, especially on elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Jayadevan cautioned that the JN.1 variant spreads rapidly, posing a heightened risk to vulnerable demographics such as the elderly and people with multiple health issues. He noted that for these individuals, their existing health conditions could worsen, potentially leading to hospitalization and subsequent complications.
Discussing the recent surge in COVID-19 cases since November, Dr. Jayadevan noted a substantial increase in infections. He observed a noticeable rise in respiratory illnesses linked to COVID-19, particularly during December compared to the preceding months, indicating a shift in the pattern of infection rates.
Despite the escalating cases, Dr. Jayadevan mentioned that many of those contracting COVID-19 presently aren’t necessitating hospitalization. He attributed this to the majority of cases occurring among individuals who are mobile, continuing to work, and thus not requiring intensive medical care.
Addressing misconceptions surrounding COVID-19, Dr. Jayadevan emphasized its distinction from the common cold, highlighting its potential impact on blood vessels, especially upon repeated infections. He stressed the importance of preventive measures, stating that despite mild initial symptoms, avoiding COVID-19 altogether remains the best approach, as reported case numbers are likely an underestimate due to limited testing.
Dr. Jayadevan underscored the critical role of testing, advocating for its advantages in implementing precise precautionary measures to curb the virus’s spread within communities. He stressed that testing offers insights into the evolving nature of the virus, enabling tailored responses in the future. Additionally, he recommended wearing masks in high-risk environments during periods of increased COVID-19 transmission.
Finally, citing observations from their network in Kerala, Dr. Jayadevan highlighted a significant rise in the positivity rate of COVID-19 among individuals displaying flu-like symptoms, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the spread of the virus.