Today, T&T received confirmation of its first COVID-19 case belonging to the JN.1 sub-variant category.

This announcement comes from the Health Ministry which says it is continuing to monitor global trends for COVID-19 and other viruses of concern.

It says the sub-variant is a descendant of the Omicron variant.

It adds that while there is no evidence at this time to suggest that it causes more severe illness, it may be more easily spread from person to person than its predecessor.

Recently, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh reported an increase in local COVID-19 related hospitalisations and deaths.

The Ministry says for the period December 23rd 2023 to January 18th 2024, six deaths were recorded, four of which occurred this month.

The Ministry is urging persons to practice good hygiene with the aim of reducing the spread of viruses, including Influenza and COVID-19.