Arcturus COVID-19 strain linked to pink eye by LA County health officials.

Los Angeles County health officials are warning residents that a new strain of COVID-19, Arcturus or XBB.1.16, may be linked to pink eye, although health experts have not conclusively confirmed the connection. The health department advises residents to take the same COVID precautions to avoid infection and to be aware that itchy, watery, or red eyes may be a sign of COVID-19 infection. Current vaccines and therapeutics are highly likely to remain protective against the new strain. Pink eye can be painful, itchy, and highly contagious, and if left untreated, it can cause damage to the cornea.