By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — New COVID-19 variant has been detected in the Philippines, in which 18 individuals have tested positive for the said variant, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Sunday (24 Dec 23).
The COVID-19 Omicron subvariant JN.1 was detected through the tests conducted November 16 to December 3.
“There has been no significant increase in the number or severity of cases overall,” DOH said.
“New variants and strains of viruses like SARS-CoV-2 are always there – but only a few become “of concern”. JN.1 is not one of those. It is another Omicron subvariant with no evidence of increased severity or unusual clinical presentation. There is also no evidence that it spreads faster,” DOH pointed out.
As per the DOH, the WHO designated the JN.1 as a variant of interest, emphasizing the need for epidemiologists and researchers worldwide to closely monitor and investigate it.
Additionally, the DOH advised the public to utilize many layers of protection this holiday season, especially for those who are vulnerable.
These measures included wearing face masks, making sure there is enough ventilation and good airflow, covering coughs, and getting vaccinated.
(IAmigo/MNM)