New COVID Variant 'Cicada' Detected in 22 Countries, Including US: Symptoms, Risks

Top Summary

• What happened: A new COVID-19 variant, informally named 'Cicada' (BA.3.2), has been detected in 22 countries, including the USA.
• Why it matters: 'Cicada' possesses a high number of mutations, potentially evading immunity from vaccines or prior infections.
• What changes for people: Individuals should be aware of COVID-19 symptoms and take precautions, though current data suggests illness is not more severe.
• Who is affected: The global population is potentially affected, with initial cases identified in South Africa and the US, and spread to numerous regions.

New COVID Variant: 'Cicada' Emerges

A new COVID-19 variant, informally dubbed 'Cicada,' is sparking concerns globally. The variant, scientifically classified as BA.3.2, has been detected in approximately 22 countries, including the United States.

This emergence occurs amid existing global challenges, including disrupted LPG supplies and ongoing international conflicts. The potential resurgence of COVID-19 adds another layer of complexity.

Origin and Detection

The 'Cicada' variant was initially identified in South Africa in November 2024. It remained largely undetected for an extended period.

Cases began to rise again in early 2026, prompting experts to assign it the informal name 'Cicada,' referencing an insect that re-emerges after a long dormancy.

Mutations and Immunity

Preliminary analysis indicates that 'Cicada' has approximately 75 mutations. This is twice as many as earlier variants like JN.1.

Many of these mutations are located on the virus's spike protein, which is crucial for entering human cells and is a primary target for antibodies.

The high number of mutations suggests 'Cicada' may be more capable of evading immunity acquired through vaccines or previous infections.

Severity and Risk Assessment

Health experts are currently assessing the severity and risk associated with the 'Cicada' variant.

Laboratory studies indicate that BA.3.2 exhibits a greater amount of immune escape. This means that antibodies produced through vaccination or prior infection may be less effective at neutralizing this variant.

 

"Nevertheless, scientists believe there is still a need for more real-time data to fully determine the extent of the mutation’s impact on the COVID-19 virus."

 

BA.3.2 Lineage and US Cases

The BA.3.2 lineage descends directly from BA.3, which is part of the Omicron variant family. The first BA.3.2 case in the United States was detected on June 27, 2025, in a traveler arriving from the Netherlands.

Between December 2025 and January 2026, the first three confirmed patients with BA.3.2 were identified in the United States.

According to reports, all patients have recovered, and there is currently no evidence suggesting that BA.3.2 causes more severe illness than previous variants.

Symptoms to Watch For

Common symptoms associated with the 'Cicada' variant include:

• Fever or chills
• Persistent cough
• Fatigue
• Headache and muscle pain
• Runny nose or congestion
• Loss of taste or smell
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
• Shortness of breath

A severe sore throat is being reported as one of the most common signs.

What to Watch Next

Global health organizations are closely monitoring the spread and impact of the 'Cicada' variant. Further research is needed to fully understand its transmissibility, severity, and ability to evade immunity.