With six more cases of COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1, the number of infections of the new variant reported in the country has risen to 69, official sources said on Tuesday.
Most of these patients are currently in home isolation and there was no increase in hospitalisation rates, they said.
NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr V K Paul had said last week that the new variant was being closely investigated but he stressed on the need for states to ramp up testing and strengthen their surveillance systems.
Although the number of cases is increasing and the JN.1 sub-variant has been found in the nation, officials had stated that there is no need for immediate concern because 92% of infected individuals choose to receive treatment at home, indicating a minor disease.
Additionally, hospitalization rates have not increased, and COVID-19 was discovered by accident in patients who were admitted for other medical reasons, they had stated.
Union Health Secretary Sudhansh Pant last week emphasized the need of COVID-19 control and management policies in light of the approaching holiday season in a letter to states and Union territories. He counseled them to minimize the danger of transmission by implementing the necessary public health measures.
States have been urged to ensure effective compliance of operational guidelines for revised surveillance strategy for COVID-19 shared by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
