The emergence of the JN.1 variant of COVID-19 in Colombia has pushed the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) occupancy in Bogotá to 80%, according to the latest update from the District Health Secretariat. This variant, classified “as of interest” by the World Health Organization (WHO), has been associated with a rapid spread, particularly in the United States.
The National Institute of Health (INS) confirmed the presence of the JN.1 variant in Colombia, prompting heightened concerns in the capital city. During the first week of January 2024, Bogotá reported a surge in new coronavirus cases, with a 23% increase compared to the previous week of December 2023. Preliminary data from the Health department revealed 256 active cases, signaling a potential consequence of increased social interactions during the December holidays.
Bogotá’s Health Secretariat clarified, however, that while there is a rise in cases, there have been no reported deaths associated with COVID-19 in the city during the last three weeks of December 2023. The occupancy of high-complexity services has remained stable, indicating that the increased cases are not leading to severe conditions or fatalities.
Concerning ICU occupancy, Bogotá currently has a capacity of 1,200 beds, with 79.7% already occupied. Only 3.8% (45) of these ICU beds are designated for COVID-19 patients, and 38 are presently in use. This suggests a decrease in severe cases necessitating high-complexity care.
“The overall occupancy of ICUs in Bogotá has remained stable, indicating that the city has adequate hospital capacity in case of an increase in demand for these services,” assured the Health Secretariat.
The INS explained the rise in respiratory infection cases across the country during the last quarter of the year, attributing it to increased social interactions, climatic phenomena, and the influx of travelers from Europe and the United States. Figures from November 2023 to December 2023 will indicate an expected increase in COVID-19 cases and incidence.
The latest genomic surveillance report from the INS, dated January 9, confirmed the circulation of various omicron variants in Colombia. The JN.1 variant has been present in the country since the week of December 24. Originating from the BA.2.86 variant, it has acquired the ability to transmit efficiently with one or two additional mutations, leading to increased transmission.
While symptoms are similar to previous omicron variants, there is some suggestion that JN.1 may cause more diarrhea and stronger headaches, although firm data supporting this is yet to be established. The variant does not seem to induce more severe disease. Researchers are closely monitoring the situation as the JN.1 variant, once causing less than 5% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., is now estimated to be responsible for over 60% of infections. The SARS-CoV-2 variant BA.2.86, referred to as “Pirola,” has virologists also on alert for significant mutations that can evade immunity.
