The newest Covid-19 variant has now hit the UK, making future cases in Ireland likely.
Arcturus, which is also known as Omicron sub-variant XBB.1.16, has spiked dramatically in countries such as India. The subvariant was first recorded back in January and cases of the disease are being closely monitored by the World Health Organisation.
There has been no Arcturus cases recorded so far in Ireland but this could likely change due to its presence in the UK. The subvariant is linked to several distinct symptoms, including itchy conjunctivitis or "pink eye."
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Health experts suggest that the variant is more infectious than the most recent subvariant of Covid-19. Sufferers also display typical Covid-19 symptoms, such as a cough and fever.
Luckily the booster vaccine offers protection against serious illness brought on by the variant. Most people who test positive for Arcturus will only present with mild cold-like symptoms, although the virus continues to pose a risk to more vulnerable people.
The surge of Arcturus in India led to officials enforcing mask wearing in some parts of the country. Health officials say it is unlikely that the new variant will lead to mass infections seen with the Omicron variant in late 2021.
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