All you need to know about Arcturus, the new Coronavirus variant

Posted on: May 22, 2023 | | Written by:

All you need to know about Arcturus, the new Coronavirus variant

Published on May 22, 2023. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes

All about Arcturus - Coronavirus variant-Health Insurance

As the world is still in the grip of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, another variant of the virus, known as Arcturus, has emerged, causing concern. This new variant has been identified in several countries, and its spread has prompted authorities to take urgent measures to contain its transmission. The emergence of the Arcturus variant has once again highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s explore what is Arcturus Covid variant, its symptoms, precautionary measures, and how having a health insurance policy can save your finances during its treatment.

What is the new virus variant?

Arcturus is a new variant of the COVID-19 virus that has emerged in recent months. It is a mutation of the original virus and is considered more contagious than the previously known strains. The Arcturus (XBB.1.16), a sub-variant of Omicron, has been identified in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, South Africa, India, and Singapore. It is characterised by a specific set of genetic mutations that distinguish it from the original virus. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified it as a ‘variant under monitoring,’ given its high transmissibility.

Signs & Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of the Arcturus variant are similar to those of the original COVID-19 virus. These include cough, fever, fatigue, loss of smell or taste, and difficulty breathing. Some individuals may also experience muscle aches, headaches, sore throat, congestion, conjunctivitis, or pink eye. It is important to note that not everyone infected with the Arcturus variant will display symptoms, and some individuals may only experience mild or no symptoms. The symptoms can be similar to viral fevers, common during seasonal change.

How deadly is this virus?

Arcturus is primarily spread through respiratory droplets that get released when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. It can even spread if a person comes in contact with a surface that is contaminated with the virus. This variant is believed to be more contagious than previous strains, but much research needs to be done to determine its true impact. While early studies have suggested that the variant may be more transmissible, it is unclear whether it is more deadly than the original virus. However, any variant of the COVID-19 virus can be dangerous, especially for the elderly, children, and those with underlying health conditions.

Precaution & Prevention

As with any variant of the COVID-19 virus, prevention and precaution are key to limiting its spread. The best way to prevent the transmission of the Arcturus variant is to continue practising social distancing, wearing masks, and washing your hands frequently. Arcturus has mutations in its spike protein that may make it more resistant to current COVID-19 vaccines. However, getting vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible is essential, as vaccines are effective against several variants. Additionally, if you have symptoms of COVID-19, it is necessary to get tested and isolate yourself to prevent the spread of the virus. It’s important to stay informed about the latest developments related to the pandemic and follow the guidance of public health officials.

Importance of health insurance in its treatment

While prevention is the best way to limit the spread of the Arcturus variant, it is still important to be prepared in case you or a loved one becomes infected. This is where health insurance or critical illness insurance can play a critical role. Health insurance can help cover the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment, including hospitalisation and medication. It can also provide coverage for follow-up care and any potential long-term effects of the virus.

Conclusion

So, what is Arcturus Covid variant? While the variant is still being studied, prevention and precaution are crucial to limiting its transmission. By taking the necessary precautions, we can continue to protect ourselves and our communities from the ongoing threat of COVID-19 and its variants. It is also important to remember the role that critical illness insurance can play in ensuring that individuals have access to the care they need in the event of an infection.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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