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

kare11.com • 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, raising concerns among public health officials.
This variant may spread more easily and evade immunity from prior infection or vaccination due to a mutation that helps it avoid antibodies.
Symptoms of the "cicada" variant are similar to previous COVID strains, including fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell, with no new or unusual symptoms reported.
Health experts advise older adults, people with chronic conditions, or those with weakened immune systems to seek medical advice early, even if symptoms are mild.
Recommended precautions to protect against the variant include standard COVID-19 safety measures, as outlined by Stony Brook Medicine.