A new COVID-19 strain known as JN.1 has been declared a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Previously grouped under its 'parent' variant, BA.2.86, WHO has classified JN.1 as a separate strain because of its rapidly increasing spread.
WHO said that JN.1 poses a low risk to global public health but warned the variant could escalate with winter in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to respiratory infections in many countries.
While current vaccines protect against severe sickness and death from JN.1 and other variants, WHO is encouraging people to remain vigilant.
WHO recommends wearing masks in crowded places, improving ventilation, handwashing, keeping up to date with vaccinations, staying home if you're sick, and getting tested if you have symptoms.
Apart from COVID-19, WHO warned that influenza, RSV and common childhood pneumonia are on the rise.
WHO will continue to monitor the risk posed by JN.1.
