May 21st 2024.
In recent news, it has been revealed that 17 cases of the COVID-19 variant KP.2 have been detected in Odisha, according to official data released on Tuesday. This data also showed that India has seen a total of 290 cases of KP.2 and 34 cases of KP.1, both sub-lineages of the virus that have been responsible for a surge in cases in Singapore.
However, a source from the Union health ministry disclosed to PTI that these sub-variants are actually all part of the JN1 variant and there is no cause for alarm. The source reassured the public that there has been no increase in hospitalizations or severe cases due to these mutations, stating that this is a natural process for viruses like SARS-CoV2.
The source went on to explain that the INSACOG surveillance system is highly sensitive and able to detect the emergence of any new variants. Samples are also regularly collected from hospitals in a structured manner to monitor any changes in the severity of the disease caused by the virus.
According to data compiled by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium, 34 cases of KP.1 have been found in seven states and union territories, with the highest number of cases being reported in West Bengal. Other states where this variant has been detected include Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand.
Similarly, 290 cases of KP.2 have been reported, with Maharashtra recording the most cases at 148. Other states and union territories where this variant has been found include Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal.
The surge in cases in Singapore has been attributed to the KP.1 and KP.2 variants, with these two sub-lineages accounting for over two-thirds of all cases reported in the country between May 5 and 11. However, globally, the predominant variants of COVID-19 are still JN.1 and its sub-lineages, including KP.1 and KP.2.
These two variants, along with others, are part of a group that scientists have dubbed "FLiRT" due to the technical names of their mutations. All of these strains are descendants of the JN.1 variant, which is an offshoot of the Omicron variant. KP.2 has been classified by the World Health Organization as a Variant Under Monitoring.
In conclusion, it is important to note that while these variants are constantly evolving, the government and health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to contain the spread of the virus. So, there is no need to panic or be concerned, as this is a natural process for viruses and we must continue to follow all safety protocols to stay safe and healthy.
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