New COVID-19 Cases Emerge in Patna, Authorities Monitor Possible JN.1 Sub-Variant Spread

Patna: The specter of COVID-19 has reared its head once again in Patna, with the discovery of two confirmed cases in the city. Health Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh has urged caution, revealing that one patient recently traveled from Kerala, while the other has a travel history to Assam. Both individuals have been advised to undergo home isolation as a precautionary measure. However, it remains unconfirmed whether these cases are linked to the new JN.1 sub-variant of the Coronavirus.

The health authorities have swiftly taken action, conducting tests on samples from each patient at prominent medical facilities. The sample of one patient underwent testing at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS), while the other was tested at ASIC Hospital in Bihta.

Health Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh provided additional details, stating that the first patient is a 29-year-old resident of Gardnibagh, while the second patient hails from Marri Banka but currently resides in Patna.

The emergence of the JN.1 sub-variant has prompted both the central and state governments to issue alerts. This particular variant is reported to be more robust than previous strains of the virus. Government guidelines now include specific instructions to monitor individuals with viral fever symptoms who have returned from international travel. Districts across the region have been directed to implement stringent infection control measures and establish suitable facilities for the treatment of patients.