There is another COVID-19 variant making its way across the globe, and new symptoms have arisen along with it.
Known as XBB.1.16 or “Arcturus,” this strain is an omicron subvariant. The advanced virus has been tracked to 29 countries thus far, one of which being the United States. Scientists have confirmed that Arcturus originated in India. Since then, there has been a breathtaking 500% increase, with the bulk of cases occurring in the Southeast Asia area. This new strain makes up a large number of current cases but does not appear to be any more dangerous than strains before it.
Pink eye is one new symptom that separates Arcturus from strains before it. The bright red itchy eye is becoming common in children diagnosed with COVID-19, though adult patients are not exempt from developing this condition. Higher-grade fevers are also a sign of the new variant. Typically a temperature above 103 degrees is considered elevated and should be closely monitored. If it lasts over 24 hours, seeking medical attention is recommended.
Aside from these, Arcturus patients exhibit the same symptoms as other variants: sore throat, cough, body aches, runny nose, headache, congestion, and headache, though these can be severe depending on the patient.
Despite how quickly it spreads, the World Health Organization has classified it as a “variant under monitoring.” Currently, they do not believe it is cause for concern but encourage people to continue to be vigilant.
