JN.1 variant spreads: India braces for new year challenges with 145 reported cases

• India records 145 cases of the JN.1 sub-variant ahead of the New Year
• States, including Maharashtra, intensify preparedness measures; health ministers assess hospital readiness
• Kerala reports 78 new cases, Gujarat follows with 34; total JN.1 cases in India reach 157

The discovery of 145 cases of the JN.1 sub-variant has prompted heightened vigilance from both central and state governments in India. With New Year's on the horizon, health ministers across states are evaluating hospital readiness and ensuring all necessary precautions are in place.

The Maharashtra government, in particular, has issued an alert, urging individuals and institutions to stay vigilant for the next 10 to 15 days. The total count of JN.1 sub-variant cases in the country has reached 157, with Kerala reporting 78 new cases and Gujarat following closely with 34. The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorized JN.1 as a "variant of interest," acknowledging its rapid spread while indicating a "low" global public health risk.