In Poland, the dominant variant of SARS-CoV-2 is Omicron, including new subvariants JN1 and KP. Dr. Grzesiowski predicts that the current wave may last until late October or November, with a peak in mid-September.
The new variants cause symptoms typical of Omicron, but JN1 may lead to gastrointestinal issues, complicating diagnosis and increasing the risk of virus transmission.
Dr. Grzesiowski also highlighted that post-COVID chronic inflammation can lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes and circulatory failure.
Work is currently underway on an updated vaccine based on the JN1 variant, which could be registered by mid-August, though availability before October seems unlikely.
Prof. Robert Flisiak from the Medical University of Białystok hopes the vaccines will be available starting in September. To date, over 58 million COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered in Poland.
New wave of COVID-19. What symptoms to watch for?
Dr. Grzesiowski confirmed that the new variants of the coronavirus cause typical Omicron symptoms such as fever, cough, conjunctivitis, and sore throat. However, more severe conditions, such as pneumonia, are relatively rare.
The JN variant leads to increased viral activity in the intestines, which changes our approach. Many people with diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain may mistake these symptoms for food poisoning, especially during vacations, and therefore do not get tested.
As a result, the JN variant increases the risk of infection, with public restrooms becoming a significant transmission point for the virus, according to the Chief Sanitary Inspector.
Recently, U.S. President Joe Biden reported a coronavirus infection.
Source: PAP/ GIS/ x.com/ YouTube.com/Everyday Health
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