Asia’s COVID surge: should you be worried? all you need to know about JN.1 strain

Updated on May 21, 2025 10:32 pm IST

COVID-19 is back in the headlines, but how serious is it this time? Asia is witnessing a fresh spike in cases, with hospitals in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Thailand seeing rising admissions. The culprit? A fast-moving variant called JN.1. In this episode of Grey Zone, we break down what this new variant actually is, why it’s spreading so quickly, and whether India is at risk of another surge. Are our vaccines still effective? Should you be worried if you’ve had COVID before? And what does the new WHO pandemic treaty mean for the next global outbreak? We also speak to Dr. Subramanian Swaminathan, one of India’s top infectious disease experts, to separate fact from panic. This isn’t about fear—it’s about clarity.

RELATED VIDEOS

Op Economic Outcast: Trump pressures world leaders to stop dealing with Iran?

8:51
Donald Trump has launched what his administration calls an “economic D-Day” against Iran.
Published on Aug 25, 2026 01:25 am IST

Putin turns Kim’s troops into new drone force for Ukraine?

8:3
North Korea has reportedly deployed about 400 drone operators to Russia as part of an estimated 8,500-strong military contingent, deepening Pyongyang’s role in Moscow’s war effort.
Published on Aug 25, 2026 01:22 am IST

Houthis go ballistic as Pakistan begs Iran

8:23
Saudi Arabia's crucial Red Sea oil route faces a fresh scare after a mystery projectile reportedly struck a tanker near the kingdom's strategic Yanbu port.
Published on Aug 25, 2026 01:20 am IST

'Frustrated' Trump turns to islamic power broker to stop Iran’s wrath?

9:43
Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir reportedly travelled to Tehran amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran.
Published on Aug 25, 2026 01:17 am IST
Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe