
Decoding XBB.1.16: The Latest COVID Variant from Omicron's Lineage.
The Arcturus variant (XBB.1.16) of COVID-19, a subvariant of Omicron first identified in India, has now been detected in 34 countries including the UK. With its increased transmissibility likely due to its ability to evade immunity from vaccinations and prior infections, the variant has led to a surge in cases, especially in India. While there’s no data on vaccine efficacy against Arcturus, it is not currently believed to be more severe than previous variants, and scientists are developing vaccines to counter such emerging strains.










