What is known about the new COVID-19 variant spreading globally?

PJ.2.1, a new COVID-19 variant has been detected in several nations, including US. It's a lineage of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. According to preliminary findings published in Journal of Infection, the variant carries a highly mutated spike protein, the structure that helps the coronavirus to enter human cells. Researchers noted more detections among people aged 70 and above.