The public has been warned to remain vigilant of the spread of the new coronavirus variant, JN.1 which is a sub-variant of Omicron.

Taking to ‘X’, the Director of the Allergy, Immunology and Cell Biology Unit of the Sri Jayewardenepura University Dr. Chandima Jeewandara said it is suspected that the virus may already be within the community. 

“In India (Kochi) 30% of all patients with influenza-like illnesses (ILI) who were tested have turned out to be Covid positive in a span of about 24 hours. It was tested and demonstrated that it’s due to JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron,” he said.

Dr. Jeewandara said that Sri Lanka’s health system is not at risk as they have successfully managed previous waves and the country is prepared if there is an increase in cases.

He advised the elderly or people with poor immunity due to other Co-morbidities to start masking up, as testing in Sri Lanka is quite low or close to zero. 

“So we don’t know where we stand. But like in the past this JN.1 sub-variant will emerge and it may have already with the observation of increased ILI cases in Sri Lanka. My guess is it’s in the community!!!  If you are in a poorly ventilated, closed, crowded environment, it’s safer to wear a mask,” he added.

Dr. Jeewandara further explained that the symptoms of JN.1 are fever, cough, loss of smell and loss of taste, persistent high fever, breathing difficulties, fatigue, inability to eat and a tendency to vomit, and these can be warning signs as observed in other parts of the world. 

Urging those with symptoms to seek medical advice, he pointed out that vaccines are still working and people may need boosters, especially for those at risk.