New type of COVID with uncommon symptom documented in Ukraine
A new type of COVID with an unusual symptom has been reported in Ukraine (Photo: Getty Images)
A new variant of the Omicron strain of coronavirus named Arcturus has been discovered in Ukraine's Rivne Region, said the head of the Rivne regional state administration, Vitalii Koval.
"It was discovered in Dubno district," he reported.
What is known about Arcturus?
First detected in January 2023 in India, this sub-variant of the Omicron COVID strain quickly spread around the world. Its infectivity level is slightly higher than the closely related Kraken strain, at 1.2 times higher.
Special feature: unusual symptom
"Arcturus causes many of the typical symptoms of previous COVID-19 variants, including fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle weakness.
Additionally, it causes an itchy and sticky feeling in the eyes, known as itchy conjunctivitis or pink eye, without pus," explained the head of the head of the Rivne regional state administration.
Therefore, Koval emphasized the importance of Coronavirus vaccination, especially for individuals over 65.
He also highlighted a recent fatal case in the Kostopil community and reminded the public that vaccines remain freely available.
Coronavirus situation in Ukraine
In July 2023, Ukraine lifted restrictions related to the COVID-19 epidemic. Specifically, the use and availability of a certificate across Ukraine is now optional. Vaccination is also optional but recommended per patient request.
In mid-October, ten cases of the Eris strain, a subspecies of COVID-19, were detected in Ukraine. The disease was recorded in six regions simultaneously.
