GENEVA (Lord Media): The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the symptoms of the new COVID-19 variant, PJ.2.1, may resemble those of the common cold and seasonal flu, making it difficult to identify COVID-19 based solely on symptoms. The organization emphasized the necessity of diagnostic testing when the identification of the illness impacts treatment.

WHO noted that illnesses can produce similar symptoms, hence methods like genomic sequencing should be employed to identify PJ.2.1. This new variant emerged in Ontario, Canada, in May 2026, and has now been reported in the United States, Europe, Asia, and some Pacific countries.

Russian expert Elena Malinikova observed severe throat pain and prolonged fatigue in some patients, but these are preliminary observations. Current evidence does not suggest that PJ.2.1 causes more severe illness.

Experts have advised taking precautionary measures, especially for the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. Using masks, improving ventilation, and maintaining hand hygiene are essential when symptoms appear.

WHO urged avoiding unverified claims and relying on credible information.