In view of the rise of fresh cases of new coronavirus variant JN.1 across the country, Indian Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya today asked all concerned to remain alert and be prepared against the new and emerging strains of coronavirus. 

"It is important to be on alert and be prepared against new and emerging strains of the coronavirus," he said as the minister was reviewing the COVID-19 situation and preparedness of public health systems amid rising Covid cases in some parts of the country. 

He asked for smooth coordination between the Centre and the states to ensure efficient management of Covid. "Let us undertake mock drills once every three months at both the central and state levels and share best practices," the minister added.

According to reports, India has so far reported 21 cases of the new coronavirus variant JN.1 from across the country. Of the total, Indian southern state Goa has reported 19 cases of the JN.1 variant, and Maharashtra and Kerala one each.

The new Covid variant JN.1 has been found in Kerala recently during a routine surveillance, the variant is currently under close monitoring. Persistent coughing to sore throat, here are signs and symptoms of Covid's JN.1 that has been causing a spike in cases in US since September this year.

A descendant of BA.2.86 variant, JN.1 has a single mutation in the spike protein compared to Pirola. Union health ministry in India has urged states to step up Covid surveillance to prevent spread of the new coronavirus variant JN.1.