The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended maintaining vigilance over such pathogen, derived from the Omicron strain, which has shown a high level of contagion.

According to the specialist from the University of Talca Erika Retamal, it is actually two very similar mutations, JN.1 and BA.2.86, the latter discovered in August 2023.

Retamal referred that main symptoms are cough, fever, sore throat, general malaise and difficulty in breathing and, according to the WHO, it does not pose a serious threat to global public health.

The scientist pointed out, however, that vaccination is the main tool to reduce transmission and the danger of severe complications.

“It is important to remind the entire population of those recommendations learned from the pandemic, such as hand washing and the use of facemasks for any respiratory symptoms,” she concluded.

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