A new version of the PJ.2.1 corona virus is difficult to distinguish from colds and flu.
Symptoms of PJ.2.1 may include a severe sore throat and persistent weakness. A test may be needed to accurately identify the virus.
The WHO found no evidence that PJ.2.1 causes more severe COVID-19 or has different symptoms than other circulating variants.
It was first spotted in Canada in May 2026. The strain is now spreading in North America and Europe.
The main risk group is people over the age of 60.