A new Covid-19 variant of interest which could lead to a rise in infections this winter has been detected in Ireland. The World Health Organisation said today it is classifying JN.1 a variant of interest. "Despite this, with the onset of winter in the northern hemisphere, JN.1 could increase the burden of respiratory infections in many countries." It said that due to its rapidly increasing spread, WHO is classifying the variant JN.1 as a separate variant of interest (VOI) from the parent lineage BA.2.86. WHO advises people to take measures to prevent infections and severe disease using all available tools.

Source: Irish Independent December 19, 2023 23:21 UTC