Prof. Chandima Jeewandara, Head of the Department of Immunology and Molecular Medicine and Director Allergy Immunology and Cell Biology Unit, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura has said the JN.1 sub variant of Covid-19, which is already seen in many countries, could already be in Sri Lanka.
In a X thread, Prof. Jeewandara points out that “In India (Kochi) 30% of all patients with influenza-like illnesses (ILI) who were tested have turned out to be Covid positive in a span of about 24 hours.”
Sri Lanka too, has seen a spate of patients with ILI symptoms of late but as Prof. Jeewandara also states, testing is ‘close to zero.’
“In Sri Lanka , testing is quite low, close to zero. So we don’t know where we stand. But like in the past this JN.1 sub variant will emerge and it may have already with the observation of increased in ILI cases in Sri Lanka. My guess is it’s in the community.”
He also says that “Our health system is not at a risk as we have successfully managed previous waves and the country is prepared if there is an increase in cases.”
“Symptoms of JN.1 are fever, cough, loss of smell and loss of taste. Persistent high fever, breathing difficulties, fatigue, inability to eat and a tendency to vomit can be warning signs as observed in other parts of the world. Seek medical advice if these are present,” he adds.
6. In Sri Lanka , testing is quite low, close to zero. So we don’t know where we stand. But like in the past this JN.1 sub variant will emerge and it may have already with the observation of increased in ILI cases in Sri Lanka. My guess is it’s in the community !!!
1. In India (Kochi) 30% of all patients with influenza-like illnesses (ILI) who were tested have turned out to be Covid positive in a span of about 24 hours.
