NEW DELHI, Dec 20, 2023 (BSS) - In view of the rise of fresh cases of new 
coronavirus variant JN.1 across the country, Indian Health Minister Mansukh 
Mandaviya today asked all concerned to remain alert and be prepared against 
the new and emerging strains of coronavirus. 

"It is important to be on alert and be prepared against new and emerging 
strains of the coronavirus," he said as the minister was reviewing the COVID-
19 situation and preparedness of public health systems amid rising Covid 
cases in some parts of the country. 

He asked for smooth coordination between the Centre and the states to ensure 
efficient management of Covid. "Let us undertake mock drills once every three 
months at both the central and state levels and share best practices," the 
minister added.

According to reports, India has so far reported 21 cases of the new 
coronavirus variant JN.1 from across the country. Of the total, Indian 
southern state Goa has reported 19 cases of the JN.1 variant, and Maharashtra 
and Kerala one each.

The new Covid variant JN.1 has been found in Kerala recently during a routine 
surveillance, the variant is currently under close monitoring. Persistent 
coughing to sore throat, here are signs and symptoms of Covid's JN.1 that has 
been causing a spike in cases in US since September this year.

A descendant of BA.2.86 variant, JN.1 has a single mutation in the spike 
protein compared to Pirola. Union health ministry in India has urged states 
to step up Covid surveillance to prevent spread of the new coronavirus 
variant JN.1.