A new COVID-19 strain is dominating infections in two Australian states as NSW experiences its highest caseload in a year.
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Epidemiologists have revealed a new subvariant, known as JN.1, has taken over infections around the world, including embedding itself in Victoria.
NSW Health's Jeremy McAnulty said the newer strain was more resistant to vaccines than previous iterations.
"We know there's lots of people getting COVID at the moment," Dr McAnulty said at a press conference.
"We haven't seen that high level for about a year."
The new strain makes up more than a third of the state's caseload.
NSW Health's COVID-19 data released on December 30 revealed statewide levels were "high" coming into 2024.
In Queensland, chief health officer John Gerrard said the two subvariants had caused overlapping waves throughout the state.
It comes amid news more than 370 Victorians are in hospital with the virus, an increase over the November COVID-19 wave.
Statewide antiviral prescriptions have also peaked at levels not seen since January 2023, and the JN.1 strain found at high levels in Victorian wastewater.
Victorian chief health officer Dr Clare Looker confirmed the link to the new variant and urged people to remain vigilant.
"During this time, it is especially important that those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 are protected against catching COVID-19," she said.
"This includes people aged 65 and above, people with a disability or chronic medical condition and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people."
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has since classified JN.1 as a "variant of interest".
"The spread of this variant will unlikely increase the burden on national public health systems compared to other Omicron sublineages," a statement said.
Steps to combat the spread of COVID-19:
- Wear a high-quality, well-fitted mask
- Get vaccinated and stay up to date with boosters. People are advised to get a booster if over the age of 75 and haven't been vaccinated in the last six months.
- Let fresh air circulate by opening windows and doors. Meet outdoors where possible.
- Take antivirals if eligible. Those at risk of falling very sick may be eligible for antiviral medications. These must be taken within five days of developing symptoms. Contact your GP for more information.
with AAP
