PJ.2.1 is currently one of the circulating COVID-19 pathogens. This is reported by the NCDC.
It was first identified on May 2, 2026, in Ontario, Canada. Subsequently, the variant was also found in the USA, Spain, Australia, and Singapore.
The published clinical data so far do not provide a basis to conclude that infection with the PJ.2.1 variant manifests with different symptoms or results in a more severe disease compared to infections with other recently emerged variants of SARS-CoV-2.
According to preliminary laboratory data, the spread of PJ.2.1 may be facilitated by its ability to bind more strongly to receptors on the surface of human cells. Studies have not provided clear evidence of more effective evasion from antibody effects.
