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The SARS-CoV-2 variant JN.1 swiftly became the global dominant strain due to a spike protein Leu455Ser substitution, boosting transmissibility and immune-escape capabilities, surpassing its predecessor BA.2.86 and other variants. These alterations have resulted in a surge of COVID-19 cases, reflected in wastewater-surveillance data surpassing rates, observed during the initial omicron wave. However, concerns persist that JN.1 might have an increased capacity to replicate in the gut, potentially leading to infected individuals shedding a higher number of viral copies than previously seen.
As there is currently a lack of available data for fecal viral shedding, we are presenting the initial longitudinal and quantitative faecal shedding data for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in individuals infected with XBB.1.5, EG.5.1, HV.1, JD.1.1, BA.2.86, and JN.1. 856 faecal samples were obtained from 113 non-hospitalised individuals with confirmed PCR positivity for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Variants were identified through Sanger sequencing. Detailed protocols for processing and extracting SARS-CoV-2 RNA from stool samples are provided in the appendix...
Published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases (March 21, 2024):
