New Highly Transmissible COVID Strain Arcturus Linked to Pink Eye Cases

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed three cases of the Arcturus strain which seems to cause conjunctivitis or pink eye.
Arcturus is a mutation of the omicron variant and makes up 9.6% of new COVID cases in the US.
Arcturus appears responsive to current vaccines designed for omicron but is still easily spread.
Precautions like high-quality masks, hand washing, disinfecting and social distancing are recommended to avoid infection.
While concerning, health officials say vaccines and treatments should still prevent severe illness from the Arcturus strain.