'Cicada' COVID is spreading. Here are the symptoms.

WGRZ • March 31, 2026 • health

Key Points:

The BA.3.2 COVID variant, nicknamed "cicada," has spread to 25 states since its discovery in June 2025, prompting warnings from public health officials.
This variant may spread more easily and evade immunity from previous infections or vaccinations due to a mutation that helps it avoid antibodies, according to the CDC.
Symptoms of the "cicada" variant are similar to other COVID strains, including fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell, with no new or unusual symptoms reported.
Health experts advise older adults, individuals with chronic conditions, or those with weakened immune systems to seek medical advice early, even if symptoms appear mild.
Protective measures recommended include standard COVID precautions, though specific guidelines were not detailed in the report.