In May 2025, Asia experienced a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, mainly due to the emergence of new variants such as JN.1. These variants exhibit higher transmissibility and potential immune evasion, resulting in increased infections across countries.
1. About the New Variants
JN.1 Variant
- Origin: A sublineage of Omicron BA.2.86.
- Mutations: Approximately 30 mutations enhancing its ability to evade the immune system and spread rapidly.
- Prevalence: Dominant in parts of Southeast Asia, including India, Singapore, and Thailand
- Symptoms: Dry cough, fever, sore throat, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, and notably, diarrhea.
KP.1 et KP.2
- Origin: Sublineages of JN.1
- Prevalence: Now dominant in Singapore, accounting for around two-thirds of cases
- Characteristics: There is no evidence of increased severity, but closely monitored
2. Symptoms to Watch For
The most common symptoms are:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Loss of taste or smell
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Notably, the JN.1 variant is associated with an increased incidence of diarrhea.
3. Testing and Diagnosis
- Prompt testing is crucial for early detection and isolation.
- Rapid antigen tests and RT-PCR tests remain effective diagnostic tools (available at Intercare).
4. Treatment and Management
Most cases of the new variants are mild and can be managed with supportive care:
- Rest and hydration
- Medications for symptom relief
- Monitoring for any worsening of symptoms
For high-risk individuals or severe cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed under medical supervision. Reference: Types of COVID-19 Treatment | COVID-19 | CDC
Vaccination remains the most effective defense against severe illness.
5. Vaccination and Prevention
- Current vaccines continue to provide protection against severe disease caused by new variants like JN.1.
- Updated booster shots are recommended to enhance immunity, especially for vulnerable populations.
- For information, a Pfizer covid-19 vaccine is available at Intercare from 8am to 6pm: Comirnaty 30mcg. Omicron XBB.1,5 for adults and adolescents from 12 years old.
- This vaccine was specifically updated to target the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant.
- It provides broad immune protection and has shown cross-reactivity against other Omicron subvariants such as EG.5 (Eris), HK.3, BA.2.86 (Pirola), and JN.1, which are widely circulating in Asia.
- Updated boosters like XBB.1.5 have been shown to reduce the risk of severe disease, even if protection against mild infection may decrease over time.
- Reference: Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Summary | Vaccines & Immunizations | CDC
6. Protective Measures
To reduce the risk of infection:
- Wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces
- Maintain physical distancing
- Practice regular hand hygiene
Don’t hesitate to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.