A New Coronavirus Variant Emerges: What You Need to Know About ‘Cicada’
In 2020 and 2021, the world learned a harsh lesson about the speed and danger of the coronavirus. Within months, its variants infected millions and claimed countless lives. Scientists responded swiftly with effective vaccines, and for the past year or so, life has felt almost normal. Masks came off, and many believed the threat had passed. Yet, as experts have consistently warned, the virus never stops evolving. It mutates to survive, and now, a new variant is making its presence known.
Health authorities have identified a highly mutated strain of SARS-CoV-2, designated BA.3.2 and nicknamed ‘Cicada.’ This variant is raising alarms as it spreads quietly across the globe, reigniting concerns about a potential resurgence. Understanding its characteristics, risks, and the symptoms it causes is crucial for staying prepared.
How Dangerous Is the Cicada Variant?
The emergence of BA.3.2 has sparked many questions. Is this variant more dangerous than its predecessors? Could it trigger another wave of infections and disruptions? While the situation is still evolving, early data provides some clarity.
The Cicada variant has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a ‘variant under monitoring.’ This designation indicates that it possesses genetic changes that may affect transmissibility, disease severity, or immune evasion, but definitive evidence is still being gathered. The key concern is its ability to bypass immunity acquired from previous infections or vaccinations, potentially leading to breakthrough cases.
Where Is Cicada Spreading?
Reports from local media in the United States have highlighted a steady increase in Cicada cases. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted in a March 19 report that infections are gradually rising across the country. Globally, BA.3.2 has been detected in approximately 20 nations. In some regions, it already accounts for up to 30% of all new coronavirus cases. Health officials emphasize that this variant has been circulating silently for months but is now showing a clear upward trend.
First identified in a traveler arriving in the United States in June 2025, the variant’s earliest known case dates back to November 2024 in South Africa. The first U.S. case was recorded in January 2026. Since September 2025, infection rates have been slowly climbing, indicating that Cicada is gaining a foothold.
What Makes Cicada Different?
Medical experts point to the variant’s genetic makeup as the primary reason for concern. BA.3.2 carries an estimated 70 to 75 mutations, a significant number that sets it apart from earlier strains. This high mutation rate may enhance its ability to evade the immune system. Dr. Robert Hopkins Jr., Medical Director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, explained that this variant was also detected in wastewater samples from multiple locations. By mid-March, Cicada made up about 3.7% of viral material found in wastewater, suggesting it is spreading more widely than clinical testing alone might indicate.
The decline in vaccination rates over the past year has also contributed to vulnerability. With fewer people receiving boosters, population-level immunity has waned, potentially giving Cicada an advantage. This combination of immune evasion and reduced vaccine uptake could make the variant more aggressive, especially as warmer months approach—a period when the U.S. has historically seen summer surges in infections.
Symptoms of the Cicada Variant
For those who do contract the Cicada variant, the symptoms reported so far are largely consistent with those seen in earlier iterations of the virus. Common signs include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Loss of taste or smell
While these symptoms may seem familiar, experts caution that the full spectrum of illness caused by Cicada is not yet fully understood. Dr. Hopkins noted that there is currently no data to confirm whether this variant causes more severe disease compared to other circulating strains. However, given its novelty and high mutation count, vigilance is warranted.
What Experts Recommend
Health authorities are urging the public to remain alert. The CDC and WHO are closely monitoring the spread of BA.3.2, but individual precautions can make a significant difference. Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, including any recommended booster doses, remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness. Wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces and practicing good hygiene—such as frequent handwashing—can also help limit transmission.
Dr. Hopkins emphasized that while the current number of infections is not alarming, the trajectory is concerning. Without renewed efforts to boost immunity and track the variant, communities could face a more challenging situation. He advised that people should not let their guard down, especially as summer approaches and travel increases.
Final Thoughts on the Cicada Variant
The return of the coronavirus in a new form serves as a reminder that the pandemic is not yet over. The Cicada variant, with its many mutations and ability to evade immunity, represents a potential threat. However, with proactive measures—such as vaccination, testing, and public awareness—its impact can be managed. Staying informed and prepared is the best defense against this evolving virus.
