Symptoms & Illnesses
Updated on 17 April 2023
The latest Covid variant XBB.1.16, also known as Arcturus, is the variant responsible for the recent surge in Covid-19 cases in India. With the daily infection count past 10,000, the variant has been spreading fast in different parts of the country. Due to its rapid spread and variety of symptoms, it has been labelled as the ‘variant under monitoring’ by WHO.
So, if you or someone you know has been under the weather recently, don’t hesitate to take a look at the symptoms of the XBB.1.16 variant, its potential risks and line of treatment.
XBB.1.16 is a subvariant of Omicron and is highly transmissible with a high infection rate. Due to its mutations in the amino acids and nucleotide space, Arcturus has the capacity to escape the hybrid immunity granted by the vaccination or previous Covid infection. According to the data so far collected, the XBB.1.16 subvariant is causing infections in people with pre-existing natural or vaccine-induced immunity.
Although the new Covid variant, XBB.1.16, seems to share the most common Covid-19 symptoms, it has a new symptom that can distinguish it from all the previous variants. Let us break down the symptoms of XBB.1.16 in children, adults and elderly to get a better understanding.
The most notable symptoms of XBB.1.16 in children include the following:
High fever
Cough
Scratchy throat
Itchy conjunctivitis or pinkeye
Sticky eyes
Runny nose or blocked nose
An itchy and sticky pink eye is the most telltale sign of the new Covid variant in children. Treatment involves giving paracetamol and multivitamins, maintaining hydration and bedrest for 5 days.
The most notable symptoms of XBB.1.16 in elderly or those with chronic conditions include the following:
A temperature between 99 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit
Delirium or confused state of mind
Loss of muscle strength
Acute cough
Shortness of breath
Treatment involves isolation, adequate rest, a healthy diet, hydration and multivitamins. You must also consult a doctor so they may advise any changes in treatment if you have a chronic condition. Additionally, you must monitor your oxygen, pulse rate and respiratory rate.
The most notable symptoms of XBB.1.16 in adults include the following:
Fever
Sore throat
Runny nose
Abdominal discomfort or diarrhea
Fatigue and muscle pain
Headaches and body aches
Treatment involves taking paracetamol and multivitamins, maintaining hydration and bedrest for 5 days.
People with co-morbidities such as the elderly population, or those with cardiac conditions, pulmonary issues like asthma, diabetes, tuberculosis and chronic kidney diseases are at a higher risk of catching the infection. Additionally, this new variant, XBB.1.16, can bypass the immunity granted by Covid-19 vaccination although it will most likely not lead to severe conditions or massive hospitalization.
Nonetheless, it is essential for those vaccinated or not to take proper precautions and isolate themselves, in case any symptoms present.
So far, there hasn’t been an increase in hospitalizations, ICU admissions or deaths due to Arcturus. However, to curb the spike in infection and contain the virus, it’s important to take some precautions:
Avoid venturing to crowded areas unless necessary.
When outside in crowded places or public transport, wear a triple layered mask.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
If you notice any symptoms, contact your doctor and isolate yourself.
Practice basic hygiene like washing hands, using sanitizers and masking up in crowded places.
Get vaccinated, if you aren’t already.
Amidst the resurging Covid cases, the looming threat of flu and the sudden change of season, it can be confusing to distinguish the cause of symptoms people are experiencing these days. Instead of overlooking the symptoms or creating panic, it’s best to empower yourself with information and take the necessary precautions.
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Written by
Anupama Chadha
Anupama Chadha, born and raised in Delhi is a content writer who has written extensively for industries such as HR, Healthcare, Finance, Retail and Tech.
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