What is BA.3.2? What to know about COVID-19 variant dubbed 'Cicada'
USA Today • • general
Key Points:
- The COVID-19 variant BA.3.2, nicknamed "Cicada," is a highly mutated strain that has been detected in over 20 countries and is gaining attention due to a steady increase in cases in the U.S. and abroad.
- First identified in South Africa in November 2024 and detected in the U.S. since January 2025, BA.3.2 has been found in wastewater samples across 25 states, though it currently accounts for a smaller percentage of cases compared to dominant variants like XFG.
- The variant's 70-75 mutations differentiate it significantly from previous strains, raising concerns about reduced vaccine effectiveness, though more data is needed to assess its potential impact and severity.
- Symptoms of the Cicada variant are similar to other COVID-19 infections, including runny nose, headache, fatigue, sore throat, and changes in smell or taste, with no evidence suggesting increased severity.
- Health officials recommend testing if symptomatic, isolating if positive, wearing N95 masks if isolation is not possible, and staying up-to-date with COVID-19 boosters to protect against severe disease.
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