Why Are COVID-19 Cases Rising Again In India? New Variant JN.1 Explained
India is seeing a fresh rise in COVID-19 cases due to the JN.1 variant, triggering concerns about symptoms, safety and new precautions.
While the world has largely adapted to life post-pandemic, COVID-19 hasn’t disappeared entirely. A recent spike in infections across several Asian countries — including Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand — has put health authorities on alert. In India, too, the number of active cases has inched upward. As of May 19, 2025, India recorded 257 active cases, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
According to reports, a new subvariant of Omicron is behind the recent rise in COVID-19 cases and has brought back concerns about health and safety.
What Is Driving The Current Rise In COVID-19 Cases In India?
The rise in COVID-19 cases is largely being driven by a new subvariant called JN.1 and its descendants, particularly LF.7 and NB.1.8. All of these are linked to the Omicron lineage, which has remained the dominant family of strains in circulation for over two years. These new subvariants are believed to spread efficiently, although the severity of illness remains relatively low for most individuals.
What Do We Know About JN.1 variant?
The JN.1 variant was first identified in the US in September 2023, as per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It descends from the BA.2.86 variant, itself a subvariant of Omicron. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a "variant of interest," which means it is being monitored for possible public health impact.
What Are The Symptoms Of JN.1?
Most people infected with JN.1 report common cold-like symptoms such as:
Fever
Sore throat
Runny nose
Headache
Muscle fatigue
What sets this variant apart is its tendency to cause gastrointestinal issues. Patients have reported:
Diarrhoea
Loss of appetite
Persistent nausea
Extreme fatigue
These symptoms make it tricky to distinguish from regular flu or stomach bugs, especially during seasonal transitions.
According to reports, doctors say the main reason is that these subvariants spread more easily. Also, the immunity people built from earlier infections or vaccines is gradually wearing off. Factors like increased travel, gatherings and people being less careful with masks or hygiene are also contributing. Seasonal changes could be helping the virus spread too.
Should The Public Be Alarmed?
Not necessarily, but vigilance is key. Speaking to NDTV, Dr. Sharad Joshi, Director & HOD, Pulmonology and Paediatric Pulmonology at Max Healthcare, stated, “There's no need to panic, but exercising caution is essential. A couple of deaths have been reported, so we can't take it lightly. It is important to practice caution.”
Dr. Sushila Kataria, Senior Director, Internal Medicine at Medanta, Gurugram, also told NDTV, “We must remain vigilant as this strain can affect all age groups, with extremes of age and those with comorbidities at higher risk.”
Who Is At Higher Risk Of Complications?
While many recover without significant issues, according to reports, certain groups must remain especially cautious. These include people who are:
Living with uncontrolled diabetes
Suffering from chronic kidney disease
Diagnosed with HIV
Transplant recipients
Elderly, pregnant women, and young children
Is The vaccine Still The Best Protection?
Yes, say doctors. According to reports, the Ministry of Health has advised high-risk groups, like the elderly and people with weak immunity, to get booster shots if available.
How Can One Stay Protected?
The advice remains consistent with earlier waves of the pandemic. Dr Joshi said, “It’s important to practice good respiratory hygiene,” which includes wearing a mask, covering your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and maintaining a safe distance where possible. “It may be wise to avoid non-essential travel, large gatherings, and outings for the time being,” added Dr Joshi.
