New Covid cases linked to the JN.1 variant are rising in Asia
India has 257 active cases—a small number, but not insignificant
Vaccination has slowed
Booster uptake is low, and protection is waning—especially for the elderly and health workers
Like many countries, India should offer annual boosters to high-risk groups using variant-specific vaccines
Simple steps help:
✔ Mask in crowds
✔ Hand hygiene
✔ Ventilation
Clear messaging can reduce risk without panic
India must support the new WHO pandemic pact and boost
🔹 Surveillance
🔹 R&D
🔹 Access to vaccines
Covid is endemic, not over
Preparedness = updated vaccines + public awareness + strong health systems