Sindh has reported suspected cases of the new coronavirus variant JN-1.

The Sindh Health Department on Saturday confirmed two suspected cases of the new coronavirus variant JN-1 in the province, are individuals aged between 50 and 60.

The cases were identified during screenings upon their arrival in Karachi from Bangkok and Jeddah on separate days, according to the health officials.

The individuals who displayed flu-like symptoms were given rapid antigen tests that confirmed their COVID-19 positivity.

Samples have been sent to a local university lab for detailed analysis to determine the specific variant, the health department added.

As reported, despite the contagious nature of the new strain, both passengers were allowed to travel to their hometowns of Dera Ghazi Khan and Sanghar under quarantine instructions.

Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued immediate orders for screening 2 per cent of passengers on international flights.

Speaking in the Senate on Jan 5, the interim health minister Dr Nadeem Jan informed that no case of the new Covid variant found in Pakistan yet.

The interim health minister said that Pakistan was closely monitoring the new variant and the government was on “red alert”.

He also mentioned the government’s efforts to implement lab testing systems across different districts for extensive testing among the population.

Caretaker Health Minister informed the upper house of the parliament that the government had issued three advisories on the matter.