THE Malaysian Ministry of Health has assured the public that the newly detected COVID-19 subvariant JN.1 does not pose a significant threat, and there is no cause for alarm.
In a statement issued today, the ministry clarified that JN.1 is less dangerous than earlier strains of the virus. Despite a recent uptick in community cases, the weekly average remains well below the national alert threshold and no related fatalities have been reported.
“The situation is in line with the transition phase of living with COVID-19. Infections are under control by ensuring immunity levels in bodies are good,” the statement read.
The ministry urged individuals in high-risk groups to consider receiving a COVID-19 booster shot to reduce the risk of infection, severe illness, or death.
“High risk groups are encouraged to get booster shots of COVID-19 immunisation to reduce the risk of infection, serious complications and death due to COVID-19.”
Those considered high risk include unvaccinated individuals aged 18 and above, adolescents from 12 years old with co-morbidities, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women and frontline healthcare workers.
COVID-19 vaccination remains voluntary and is available free of charge at selected government health clinics nationwide. Eligible individuals may book appointments via the MySejahtera application. - June 12, 2025
