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Source- This post is based on the article “A case of JN.1, a subvariant of COVID19, found in Kerala as part of the ongoing routine surveillance by INSACOG” published in “PIB” on 16th December 2023.
Why in the News?
Recently a case of the JN.1 subvariant of COVID-19 has been identified in Kerala during the continuous routine surveillance conducted by INSACOG.
What is JN.1?
1) This virus is a novel variant of Omicron subvariant BA.2.86 (also known as Pirola) with an additional spike protein mutation.
2) The variant has the capability to spread rapidly and evade immunity, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and caution.
3) Symptoms- Reported symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and mild gastrointestinal symptoms.
What is INSACOG?
1) INSACOG, the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium, is a network of genomic laboratories dedicated to monitoring COVID-19 in India from a genomic perspective.
2) The ICMR is a participant in this consortium.
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