A new variant arises, is this another crisis?

Year 2020, was the worst- Philippine today is striving for the normal lifestyle to return; amidst
this challenge, a new chapter unfolds and a new opponent arises. What is it and will we be able to open
a new path to survive this chapter?

Last April 28, 2023, Philippines has detected its first new covid-19 variant case, a descendant of
omicron virus which is the sub variant XBB.1.16. This has been designated as a variant of interest by the
world health organization (who) and have been monitored by them since March 22, 2023. This said
variant is also widely known as “Arcturus”

Arcturus was driven from the name of the brightest start in the northern celestial hemisphere. It
was first detected in India. Experts say that compared to previous strain, this variant doesn’t appear to
be more dangerous, but only has a higher transmissibility rate, this is because it appears to be better at
evading existing immunity from vaccination and prior infections.

Most reports mentioning this variant, states that this often target children. The frequent
symptoms are, conjunctivitis, itchy or sticky sore-pink eyes along with flu-like symptoms. This just shows
that the virus continues to evolve because the virus is still silently circulating continuously.

It is important to continue following safety and health protocols, avoid close contact with
people who are sick, and know the possible ways to prevent this new sub variant. Nevertheless, we are
all in this together and we will discover ways to recover. Whatever humanity faces, we will continue to
break through.