Chandima Jeewandara, Director of the Allergy Immunology and Cell Biology Unit at the University of Sri Jayewardenapura, has raised concerns about the potential presence of the COVID-19 variant JN.1 in Sri Lanka. Speaking to the press, Jeewandara highlighted key symptoms and urged the public to remain vigilant amid an apparent increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases.

According to Jeewandara, symptoms associated with the JN.1 variant include fever, cough, loss of smell, and loss of taste. He cautioned that persistent high fever, breathing difficulties, fatigue, inability to eat, and a tendency to vomit could serve as warning signs, aligning with observations made in other parts of the world.

Jeewandara expressed concern about the limited testing in Sri Lanka, describing it as "quite low, close to zero." He emphasized the need for increased testing to accurately assess the prevalence of the variant in the country. "Like in the past, this JN.1 sub-variant may have already emerged, especially with the observed increase in ILI cases in Sri Lanka. My guess is it's in the community," he stated.

The health expert advised individuals in poorly ventilated, closed, or crowded environments to wear masks for added protection. Additionally, he recommended that those belonging to the elderly population or individuals with poor immunity due to other comorbidities should consider masking up as a precautionary measure.