New COVID-19 variant PJ.2.1 spreads globally
A novel SARS-CoV-2 variant, PJ.2.1, first detected in Canada, is now present in several countries, prompting increased monitoring by health experts.
The Cliff News | 11 November 2026
A new SARS-CoV-2 variant, designated PJ.2.1, is gaining attention after its initial detection in Canada in May 2026. The variant has since been identified in multiple countries, including the United States, Singapore, Australia, France, and Spain, indicating its growing global reach.
Research published in the Journal of Infection in October 2026 details the variant's spread, its distinct characteristics, and the effectiveness of current variant-adapted booster vaccines against it. The study underscores that COVID-19 continues to circulate worldwide, contributing to significant illness and mortality.
Origin and Spread of PJ.2.1
Described in the paper as a “novel saltation variant,” PJ.2.1 originated from MC.10.1.7, a sub-lineage of the JN.1 variant that was prevalent until May 2025. The first identified case of PJ.2.1 was in Ontario, Canada, on May 2, 2026. Following its initial detection, cases were subsequently reported across other Canadian provinces.
By June 30, 2026, the variant had surfaced in the United States, with the first case recorded in New York City. Further detections spanned several US states, including California, Florida, Arizona, and New Jersey. Wastewater surveillance data highlighted PJ.2.1 as the “fastest-growing variant in the USA” during the study period.
Beyond North America, PJ.2.1 sequences were also reported in Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, France, and Spain, confirming its widespread international dissemination.
Variant Characteristics and Symptoms
Dr. Harish Chafle, a senior consultant chest physician at Gleneagles Hospitals Parel, Mumbai, explained that PJ.2.1 is classified as a saltation variant due to its numerous new mutations in the spike protein. These mutations are thought to enhance its ability to bind to human cells and evade existing immunity.
The symptoms associated with PJ.2.1 are notably similar to those of a common cold or seasonal flu. Patients have reported experiencing fever, severe sore throat, runny or blocked nose, cough, headache, muscle ache, and fatigue. Dr. Chafle emphasized that due to this symptom overlap, it is impossible to definitively diagnose COVID-19 based on symptoms alone, reinforcing the WHO's recommendation for testing when treatment decisions are involved.
Expert Assessment and Monitoring
Dr. Amit Saraf, director of internal medicine at Jupiter Hospital Thane, advised that the spread of PJ.2.1 warrants closer monitoring rather than immediate concern. The emergence of new variants underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in public health strategies.
The study also examined other SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating during May and June 2026, including BA.3.2.2, LP.8.1, NB.1.8.1, and XFG. BA.3.2.2 showed relatively high frequency across the analyzed regions during this period, though its prevalence subsequently began to decline.