Cases of Arcturus Covid are a cause of concern across the country following the report of five deaths in the UK.
Officially labelled Omicron XBB.1.16, the new strain has now reached all four nations of the UK after first being identified in January. The sub-variant is extremely prevalent in India, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) currently monitoring the spread of the virus.
Arcturus contains a mutated spike protein that may make it more infectious with characteristics that means it is slightly different to the variants and sub-variants we have experienced before.
But what are the symptoms of Arcturus Covid and how could they differ compared to previous strains? Here is everything you need to know aboutOmicron XBB.1.16.
What are the symptoms of Arcturus Covid?
According to health experts in India, Arcturus symptoms include a high fever, cough and "itchy" conjunctivitis or pink eye.
Doctor Vipin Vashishtha, a paediatrician and former head of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics Committee of Immunisation, explained that the symptoms of the virus occurring in the eyes are mainly impacting children and young adults with the virus, however, adults are being impacted too.
The other symptoms of the new strain are 'typical' with other Covid variants. According to the NHS, these include:
- continuous cough
- high temperature, fever or chills
- loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell
- shortness of breath
- unexplained tiredness, lack of energy
- muscle aches or pains that are not due to exercise
- not wanting to eat or not feeling hungry
- headache that's unusual or longer lasting than usual
- sore throat, stuffy or runny nose
- diarrhoea
- feeling sick or being sick
How many cases of Arcturus Covid have been confirmed in Scotland?
A total of five cases of the new strain have been confirmed in Scotland as of April 17, according to UK health officials.
However, there may be a number of unidentified cases across the country as there is no longer regular testing throughout following the end of community testing last year.
The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that there have been 135 cases of the new strain reported across England during their latest briefing.
Have there been any Arcturus Covid deaths in Scotland?
No deaths due to Arcturus Covid have been reported in Scotland as things stand.
However, five deaths were confirmed in England on Monday.
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