Itchy Eyes? The New ‘Arcturus’ COVID Variant, or XBB.1.16, Could Be Behind It

Date:

Share post:

CHICAGO, IL – Health officials are monitoring a new COVID variant known as the “Arcturus” variant, or XBB.1.16, which is spreading in multiple countries and bringing with it a perplexing new symptom for this time of year – itchy eyes. 

The variant, deemed more transmissible than its predecessors, has been confirmed in around 20 countries as of Friday. 

While it has not shown signs of more severe illness, it stands out for causing conjunctivitis, or red and pink eye, often accompanied by itchiness. With the arrival of allergy season, the new symptom has led to confusion in some cases.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related articles

Chicago, IL – Warm Weekend Ahead with Showers, Storms Looming

Chicago, IL - Chicago residents can expect a warmer weekend with multiple rounds of rain and thunderstorms forecasted...

Iowa Police Warn of Faux Publishers Clearing House Scam: Bettendorf Residents Targeted by Fraudulent Letters

Bettendorf, IA - The Bettendorf Police Department in Iowa has sounded the alarm on a scam involving counterfeit...

I-55 at Illinois 17 Interchange Set for Overnight Closures Starting April 1st

Dwight, IL - Commuters on the Barack Obama Presidential Expressway are advised of upcoming overnight closures at the...

Brookfield Zoo Announces Roaring Nights Summer Concerts in Chicago, Combining Live Music, Conservation

Chicago, IL - The Brookfield Zoo is set to host its Roaring Nights summer concert series, an annual...