The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recently announced that it is conducting genome sequencing of the JN.1 variant of coronavirus, which was first detected in India in October 2021. The JN.1 variant is a sub-lineage of the Delta variant and has some mutations that may affect its transmissibility and immune escape. Here are some key facts about the JN.1 variant and how India is monitoring its spread.
What is the JN.1 variant and where did it come from?
The JN.1 variant is a sub-lineage of the Delta variant (B.1.617.2), which was first identified in India in October 2020 and became the dominant strain of coronavirus in the country and many parts of the world. The JN.1 variant has some additional mutations in the spike protein of the virus, which is responsible for attaching to and entering human cells. The JN.1 variant was first detected in India in October 2021 and has since been reported in 13 other countries, including the UK, the US, Canada, Germany, France, and Japan.
What are the mutations in the JN.1 variant and how do they affect its behavior?
The JN.1 variant has 14 mutations in the spike protein, of which four are of particular concern. These are:
- N440K: This mutation may increase the binding affinity of the virus to the human ACE2 receptor, which is the entry point of the virus into the cells. This may enhance the transmissibility of the virus.
- Y144T: This mutation may affect the neutralization of the virus by antibodies, which are produced by the immune system or by vaccines. This may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccines and the natural immunity against the virus.
- L452R: This mutation may also affect the neutralization of the virus by antibodies and may increase the resistance of the virus to some monoclonal antibody treatments, which are used to treat severe COVID-19 cases.
- T478K: This mutation may also affect the neutralization of the virus by antibodies and may increase the infectivity of the virus.
How prevalent is the JN.1 variant in India and what is its impact on the COVID-19 situation?
According to the ICMR, the JN.1 variant accounts for about 3% of the genome sequenced samples in India as of December 2021. The variant has been detected in 11 states and union territories, with the highest proportion in Maharashtra (9.4%), followed by Delhi (6.7%), Gujarat (5.9%), and Karnataka (5.3%). The ICMR has said that there is no evidence of any increase in the severity of the disease or the mortality rate due to the JN.1 variant. However, the ICMR has also cautioned that the variant may have a higher potential for transmission and immune escape and may pose a challenge to the ongoing vaccination drive.
How is India tracking the JN.1 variant and what are the measures taken to contain its spread?
The ICMR has said that it is conducting genome sequencing of the JN.1 variant and other variants of concern and interest regularly. The ICMR has also established a network of 37 laboratories across the country for genome sequencing and surveillance of the coronavirus variants. The ICMR has also issued guidelines for the testing, tracing, and treatment of the JN.1 variant and other variants. The guidelines include:
- Increasing the testing capacity and frequency, especially in the areas where the JN.1 variant has been detected.
- Enhancing the contact tracing and isolation of the positive cases and their contacts.
- Strengthening the clinical management and monitoring of the patients with COVID-19, especially those with comorbidities and severe symptoms.
- Continuing the vaccination drive and ensuring the coverage of the eligible population with both doses of the vaccine.
- Following COVID-appropriate behavior, such as wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, and avoiding crowded places.
The ICMR has also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the health authorities in the fight against the JN.1 variant and other variants of the coronavirus
