PH detected its first case of a new Covid variant, here’s what you need to know about Arcturus

A new COVID-19 strain has been causing a surge in cases in India and it’s already been detected in the Philippines.

Subvariant XBB.1.16, dubbed “Arcturus,” is a fast-growing sublineage of the Omicron subvariant and has already been detected in 33 other countries.

Whenever a new variant like this causes a spike in cases, a big question pops into our mind: Is it something we should worry about?

The first Arcturus case in the Philippines was announced by the Department of Health (DOH) on April 26. The patient, who has already recovered, is based in Iloilo province.

“The variant was initially flagged due to its increasing global prevalence and for having mutations which may lead to increase in infectivity or pathogenicity,” the health agency said.

“However, currently available evidence for XBB.1.16 does not suggest any differences in disease severity and/or clinical manifestations compared to the original Omicron variant.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) first identified the strain in January and upgraded it to a “variant of interest” in April.” However, WHO also said Arcturus hasn’t shown a change in severity compared to other Covid strains.

DOH also told reporters that risk assessment for the variant is “low.” still.

Arcturus also exhibits the same symptoms as other COVID-19 variants like fever, coughs, sore throat, nasal congestion, fatigue, shortness of breath, and loss of taste and smell. Officials in India also report that those with Arcturus have been exhibiting a new symptom: conjunctivitis, which causes red, itchy eyes, or pink eye.

Filipinos are urged to practice minimum public health standards like wearing face masks, isolating when sick, and ensuring good airflow in public spaces. Getting vaccinated and boosted is also highly encouraged.

From April 17 to 23, the Philippines saw an increase in COVID-19 cases, with average daily infections up by 32%. 3,148 new cases were found in the recent week with five verified deaths.

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Source: we the pvblic