The “Cicada” COVID Variant: What You Need to Know About BA.3.2
A latest COVID-19 variant, nicknamed “Cicada” (officially BA.3.2), is gaining ground across the United States and globally. Health experts are monitoring its spread due to its high number of mutations and potential to evade existing immunity.
A Highly Mutated Strain
BA.3.2 is an Omicron subvariant with over 50 mutations on its spike protein compared to BA.3, and more than 70 compared to the original Wuhan strain. Researchers first identified it in a sample from South Africa in November 2024. By November 2025, it was circulating in multiple countries, including Australia, Germany, and the United States. As of February 2026, it has been detected in 23 countries.
Current Spread in the US
The variant was first detected in the US in June 2025 in a traveler arriving from the Netherlands. As of February 11, 2026, BA.3.2 had been detected in clinical samples from patients in 25 states, as well as in airline and wastewater samples. Wastewater monitoring is a key method for tracking strain shifts.
Does “Cicada” Pose a Greater Threat?
Currently, there’s no evidence that BA.3.2 causes more severe illness than previous variants circulating in the winter of 2025-26. However, its significant genetic differences raise concerns about the effectiveness of current COVID-19 vaccines. The sheer number of mutations may allow it to partially evade immunity from prior infection or vaccination.
Symptoms of BA.3.2
The symptoms associated with BA.3.2 appear to be similar to those of other COVID-19 variants. Common symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of smell or taste
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
Some individuals may experience asymptomatic infections, meaning they are infected but do not exhibit any symptoms.
Vaccine Effectiveness and Future Outlook
While the current COVID-19 vaccine may not be as effective against BA.3.2, experts emphasize that vaccines still provide protection, particularly against severe disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared BA.3.2 a variant under monitoring (VUM) on December 5, 2025.
It remains uncertain whether BA.3.2 will become the dominant strain in the United States. Experts suggest it’s possible it could drive a summer COVID-19 surge, but this is not yet certain.
What to Do If You Suspect Infection
If you believe you have COVID-19, the CDC recommends staying home, avoiding contact with others, and wearing a high-quality mask if you must be around people. Focus on recovery with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom management. Seek emergency medical care if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or skin.
FAQ: BA.3.2 and COVID-19
Q: Is the “Cicada” variant more dangerous?
A: Currently, there’s no evidence it causes more severe illness, but it may partially evade immunity.
Q: Where did BA.3.2 first appear?
A: It was first detected in South Africa in November 2024.
Q: What are the common symptoms?
A: Symptoms are similar to other COVID-19 variants, including cough, fever, sore throat, and fatigue.
Q: Are vaccines still effective?
A: Yes, vaccines still provide protection, especially against severe disease, though effectiveness may be reduced.
Q: What does “variant under monitoring” mean?
A: It means the WHO is closely tracking the variant due to its mutations and potential impact.
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