COVID Advisory: Omicron Sub-Variant on the Rise, JN.1 Variant Explained

The JN.1 variant, a descendant of Omicron, is becoming more prevalent in the U.S., accounting for a growing percentage of COVID-19 infections. While it is not known to cause more severe disease, it may be more contagious or better at evading immune defenses. Current vaccines and treatments are expected to be effective against JN.1, although they may provide slightly less protection. It is unclear if JN.1 will cause a significant surge in cases, but the best defenses remain vaccination, masking, and limiting exposure to infected individuals.