In a significant development, the Infectious Disease Research Laboratory at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) announced on Wednesday that it has identified the JN.1 variant of the Covid-19 virus in six out of 15 samples from Karachi. JN.1, classified as a variant of interest by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant and has gained attention for being the predominant strain in the United States.
Dr. Imran Nisar, the lead investigator at AKUH’s Infectious Disease Research Laboratory, stated that the JN.1 variant is highly transmissible, causing primarily mild symptoms similar to a common cold, affecting the upper respiratory tract. However, concerns have been raised regarding potential immune evasion, suggesting that previously administered vaccines may be less effective against this new variant.
The detection of JN.1 in two air passengers at Jinnah International Airport underscores the need for continued vigilance. Dr. Nisar explained that individuals returning to the country are randomly tested at airports, and some have tested positive for Covid-19. The samples were subsequently sent to various laboratories, including the National Institute of Health (NIH), Dow University’s laboratories, and AKUH’s clinical labs, where the JN.1 variant was sequenced.
Dr. Nisar highlighted the constant mutation of the Covid-19 virus, emphasizing that most mutations are not significant. However, when a variant like JN.1 emerges, there are concerns about immune evasion, potentially impacting the effectiveness of existing vaccines.
In response to the discovery, health authorities are advising the public to adhere to preventive measures, such as social distancing, mask-wearing, and proper sanitation. The NIH has issued an advisory to provinces, alerting and facilitating health authorities for timely preventive and control measures.
While no cases of the JN.1 variant had been officially recorded in Pakistan until now, the government is on high alert. The federal government has taken proactive steps, deciding to procure an additional 500,000 doses of the Covid-19 vaccine to ensure preparedness for any potential surge in cases. Approximately 200,000 doses are expected to arrive in the coming week, with the remainder to follow in subsequent phases.
