KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has issued a cautionary advisory regarding the new JN.1 variant of COVID-19, particularly as cases surge in the southern neighbor, India.

In a press statement, the ministry has urged everyone to adopt preventive measures, emphasizing the importance of avoiding large gatherings, maintaining hand sanitation, practicing physical distancing, and wearing masks.

While the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the JN.1 coronavirus strain as a “variant of interest,” it reassures that the variant does not pose a significant threat to public health. Instances of this new variant have been identified in various countries, including the USA, India, UK, and China.

Although Nepal has observed an increase in COVID-19 cases at India-Nepal border points, the presence of the JN.1 variant has not been confirmed yet.

To mitigate the risk of infection and severe illness, the WHO advises individuals to wear masks in crowded areas, cover coughs and sneezes, practice regular hand hygiene, stay up to date with COVID and flu vaccinations (especially for vulnerable individuals), stay home if feeling unwell, and get tested if experiencing symptoms. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure the collective well-being of the community.