Covid variant JN.1 now leading cause of infections and spreading quickly

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December 24th, 2023 | By Ryan Genova

Infections and hospitalizations from JN.1, a new COVID-19 subvariant, are increasing in Pennsylvania and the U.S., officials said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Omicron variant is now “the most widely circulating variant in the United States.”

Recent CDC estimates show that JN.1 is now causing almost half of infections nationwide, when just days ago it was estimated that JN.1 caused only about 20% of infections.

JN.1 makes up nearly 57% of new COVID cases in the Northeast, according to the data.

According to CovidActNow.org, Montgomery County’s risk level is currently low. The county’s Covid Public Health Emergency declaration ended on May 11, 2023. 

The first U.S. cases of JN.1 were reported in September. Variant trackers say they expect JN.1 to become the leading coronavirus variant around the world in a matter of weeks, 6ABC Philadelphia reported on Saturday.

From the CDC’s press release on Friday, December 22:

For the two weeks ending on December 23, 2023, JN.1 is expected to account for 39-50% of all SARS-CoV-2 variants. That’s an increase from the projected prevalence two weeks ago of 15-29%. We’re also seeing an increasing share of infections caused by JN.1 in travelers, wastewater, and most regions around the globe.

The Center also said JN.1’s continued growth “suggests that the variant is either more transmissible or better at evading our immune systems than other circulating variants.” 

Recommended precautions include:

  • Get your updated COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Test if you develop respiratory symptoms or are exposed to someone who has COVID-19.
  • Talk to a healthcare provider about treatment if you test positive and are at higher risk for severe effects of COVID-19.
  • Help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
    • Improving your indoor air is one of the best ways to prevent spread. This can be as simple as using a portable air cleaner or opening windows (for those with pleasant winter weather). And if your home thermostat offers a FAN option, turn it from AUTO to ON when you have visitors to keep air running continuously.
    • Learn more about other ways to help reduce spread, including testing for COVID-19, wearing masks, and increasing space and distancing.

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