The close of 2023 witnessed a surge in COVID-19 cases. The uptake in reported cases is attributed to colder weather and the holiday season. Now, as winter still forces many to stay indoors, the instances of COVID-19 remain higher than in previous months.
JN.1, an Omicron variant, is the number one variant of COVID-19’s new cases in the United States (U.S.). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports JN.1 comprised over 90% of U.S. cases this winter1. As of February 3, 2024, the Omicron variants HV.1 and JG.3 are ranked at number 2 and 3 respectively. Globally, the U.S. (15.0%) cases of JN.1 are second to France (35.0%)2. The CDC is waiting to learn more about JN.1 impact this winter when more data is available.
The U.S. broke from the World Health Organization’s (WHO) classification of JN.1 as a variant of interest. U.S. officials have not moved JN.1 to a standalone variant of interest. Instead, the U.S. continues to place JN.1 with the BA.2.86 Omicron variant3.
Current data suggests that JN.1’s symptoms are equal to its predecessors. However, researchers warn that individuals’ responses to JN.1 will vary. Those with pre-existing conditions or who are part of a vulnerable population should take precautions to protect themselves from transmission.
Key trends of JN.1 show that its transmission is slowing after peak reported cases earlier this winter. Most of the U.S. is witnessing a decline in reported cases in the emergency room. The exception is the South, where the reported cases have remained the same. Furthermore, the South had an increased amount of the COVID-19 virus in wastewater. Current data suggests that JN.1’s symptoms are equal to its predecessors.
The antiviral drug Paxlovid, manufactured by Pfizer, is used to help slow the progression of COVID-19. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Paxlovid Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) status in December 2021. FDA approval came in May 2023.
The FDA has continued using the EUA-labeled Paxlovid until its expiration date, March 8, 2024. Once that date passes, the unused Paxlovid will be returned to Pfizer. Medical professionals with these doses can dispose of the unused medication according to federal, state, and local rules. Those who receive prescriptions after March 8th for Paxlovid will receive FDA-approved doses.