Pink eye associated with ...

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the transparent mucous membrane covering the eyeball. Symptoms include redness, watery eyes, and sensitivity to light. Viruses like adenovirus, influenza, and herpesviruses are common causes, along with bacterial infections, allergies, chemical exposure, contact lens issues, and physical trauma. A new COVID variant, Arcturus (XBB.1.18), is rapidly spreading in the U.S. It primarily affects children and presents symptoms like pink eye and high fever. Arcturus is a subvariant of Omicron and is becoming more prevalent, with 9.6% of U.S. cases reported.1