Flu, Change of Season or New Covid Variant, XBB.1.16- What’s Causing These Symptoms?

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.

What is XBB.1.16 or Arcturus?

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.

What are the Symptoms of the New Covid Variant?

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.

Symptoms of XBB.1.16 in Children

The most notable symptoms of XBB.1.16 in children include the following:

• High fever

• Cough

• Scratchy throat

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• 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.

Symptoms of XBB.1.16 in Elderly

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

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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.

Symptoms of XBB.1.16 in Adults

The most notable symptoms of XBB.1.16 in adults include the following:

• Fever

• Sore throat

• Runny nose

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• 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.

Who is at risk of infection?

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.

What precautions should you take?

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.

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• 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.