New Covid-19 Variant, Arcturus (XBB.1.16), Has Officially Entered Malaysia

Following the announcement that we have reached the recovery (endemic) stages of the Covid-19 pandemic in April of last year, many took long breaths of relief that they can start living without fear again.

Though, cases have once again been increasing and it appears that Malaysia also now has the latest variant.

According to a report by China Press, the Assistant Dean of Research and a Professor at the New York Institute of Technology Rajeev Venkayya has revealed that the new variant, Arcturus (XBB.1.16) has officially entered Malaysia.

But, thankfully, the current vaccines are allegedly affective in battling this variant.

Arcturus (XBB.1.16) was first discovered in India in January 2023, and has since caused a surge of cases in India and has spread to at least 33 countries including Malaysia, Singapore, the UK, Australia and more.

While the symptoms for this variant remains the same as its predecessors (from coughing to sore throats), Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is more likely to be infectious towards children under 12-years-old and can cause them to also develop conjunctivitis, resulting in discharge and eye scars.

Hence, do ensure to keep your children safe by masking up in large crowds and making sure they have all their necessary vaccines.

Stay safe folks!

Also read: There’s a Heat Wave Coming Our Way, Here’s How You Can Keep Yourself Protected!