Covid-19's New Challenger: Unpacking the Arcturus Variant

​   The Covid-19 pandemic has been ongoing for over a year now, with mutations of the virus emerging from time to time.
​   One such variant that has been in the news lately is the Arcturus variant. Here's all you need to know about this particular strain of the virus.

What is the Arcturus Variant?

   The Arcturus variant, also known as B.1.617.3, is a mutation of the Covid-19 virus that was first found in India. Like other Covid-19 mutations, the Arcturus variant has changes to the virus's spike protein which make it more transmissible.
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​How Contagious is the Arcturus Variant?

​   According to the World Health Organization, the Arcturus variant is more transmissible than the original Covid-19 virus.
​   The Arcturus variant has mutations in the spike protein which may help the virus attach more efficiently to human cells, making it easier for it to spread.
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Is the Arcturus Variant More Dangerous?

​   At this time, it is not known if the Arcturus variant is more dangerous or deadly than the original Covid-19 virus.
​   However, it is known to be more transmissible and therefore more likely to cause infections.
   This could lead to more hospitalizations and deaths if the variant spreads widely in communities with low vaccination rates.
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​Is the Arcturus Variant Resistant to Vaccines?

​   There is some concern that the Arcturus variant may be resistant to vaccines, particularly the AstraZeneca vaccine which has been used widely in India.
​   However, more research is needed to determine the exact effectiveness of vaccines against the Arcturus variant.
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​What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?

​   The best way to protect yourself against Covid-19, including the Arcturus variant, is to get vaccinated. The Covid-19 vaccine has been shown to be highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from Covid-19

​   Additionally, it's important to continue practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly, wearing a mask in crowded areas, and avoiding close contact with others.
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​Conclusion

   ​The emergence of the Arcturus variant is a reminder that the Covid-19 pandemic is not over yet, and that we need to continue taking precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

​   While more research is needed to determine the full impact of this variant, getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene are still our best defenses against Covid-19. Let's continue to do our part to slow the spread of the virus and get through this pandemic together.