Delay Can Be Dangerous
India
healthysoch
Mumbai/Chandigarh, June 5, 2025:
With the rising number of JN1-related COVID-19 cases, doctors and diagnostic experts are warning people not to delay testing if symptoms appear. Timely testing can help detect the virus early, prevent its spread, and reduce the risk of complications.
The JN1 Covid variant, known for its high transmissibility, may present mild or unusual symptoms such as sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, body ache, or mild fever. However, ignoring these signs or delaying testing may lead to further spread within families, workplaces, and communities.
According to Expert Doctor, The new COVID-19 variants have symptoms similar to Omicron and are usually mild. Common signs include sore throat, tiredness, cold, cough, and fever. The earlier symptom of losing taste and smell is not seen much now. In the JN.1 variant, some people also get mild but ongoing fever, low appetite, loose motions, or stomach upset. These signs should not be ignored as just tiredness. Getting tested and isolating at the right time can help stop the virus from spreading.
Dr. Rajesh Bendre, National Technical Head & Chief Pathologist at GlobalPathologist Laboratory Apollo Diagnostic Said, “We are observing a pattern where people assume it’s a normal cold or seasonal flu and avoid getting tested. But COVID-19, especially the JN1 COVID variant, can mimic common flu symptoms. The earlier we test, the sooner we can isolate and treat, which makes a huge difference. Apollo Diagnostics offers easy access to RT-PCR testing across India with home sample collection and digital report delivery, making the process safe and convenient for patients.The diagnostic chain also warns that by delaying testing, patients risk unknowingly infecting others, especially vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, young children, or those with low immunity or pre-existing health conditions.
Dr Bendre added, “Fortunately, the current vaccination and booster doses are proving to be effective even against the new variants like NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 have not shown significant resistance to the vaccine so far. So, there is no need to panic. However, people must continue to follow basic COVID-safety practices—wear masks, avoid crowded places, wash hands regularly, and complete their vaccination, including booster doses. If any symptoms appear, it is important to consult a doctor without delay.”