Health officials are monitoring a new COVID-19 variant known as the “Cicada” variant as it spreads across the United States and other countries. The variant is officially known as BA.3.2.
The variant was first detected in South Africa in 2024 and has since been found in more than 20 countries and multiple U.S. states through testing and wastewater monitoring.
Scientists say the Cicada variant has a very high number of mutations, especially on the spike protein, which helps the virus enter human cells. This has raised concerns that it could partially evade immunity from vaccines or previous infections.
Despite these concerns, experts say there is currently no evidence that the variant causes more severe illness than previous COVID variants. Vaccines are still believed to protect against severe disease and hospitalization.
Symptoms appear similar to other COVID variants, including sore throat, cough, fatigue, headache, fever, and congestion. Some people may also experience nausea or diarrhea.
The variant has been detected in wastewater samples across multiple states, which experts use to track how widely the virus is spreading.
Health officials say there is no reason to panic, but they are continuing to monitor the variant closely as it could become more widespread in the coming months.
Experts continue to recommend standard precautions such as staying home when sick, washing hands, and staying up to date with vaccinations.
