The BA.3.2 variant, commonly referred to as the Cicada variant, is a descendant of the BA.3 subvariant of Omicron that emerged in 2022. It was first identified in South Africa in November 2024 and has since been detected in over 20 countries, including 25 states in the United States. With approximately 70 to 75 mutations in its spike protein, the Cicada variant has raised concerns among health officials and the public alike.

Initial reports indicate that common symptoms associated with the Cicada variant include cough, fever or chills, sore throat, congestion, shortness of breath, loss of smell or taste, fatigue, headache, and gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or vomiting. These symptoms largely mirror those of previous COVID-19 strains, particularly the Omicron variants.

Despite the presence of these symptoms, current evidence suggests that the BA.3.2 variant does not cause more severe illness compared to earlier variants. Dr. Adolfo García-Sastre stated, “There’s no evidence that BA.3.2 is causing more severe disease or hospitalizations in countries where it’s more widespread.” Most cases appear to be mild to moderate, resembling flu-like illness, especially among vaccinated individuals.

Health experts emphasize that the current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide strong protection against severe disease, even if breakthrough infections occur. However, there are concerns regarding the variant’s multiple mutations, which may impact vaccine effectiveness. Observers note that while the vaccines may not be as effective against the Cicada variant, they still offer significant protection against severe outcomes.

The Cicada variant primarily spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, similar to other COVID-19 variants. Health authorities are actively monitoring its rise, particularly in the United States, where cases are currently increasing.

Health experts recommend that individuals stay up to date with vaccinations and take precautions in crowded settings to mitigate the spread of the virus. As the situation develops, health officials continue to assess the variant’s impact and provide guidance to the public.

In summary, the symptoms linked to the Cicada variant remain largely consistent with previous COVID-19 strains, and there is no strong evidence suggesting increased severity of illness caused by this variant. Most cases remain mild and can be managed at home with rest and hydration. Details remain unconfirmed as health authorities continue to gather data on this emerging variant.

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As of March 2026, the cicada COVID variant BA.3.2 has been detected in at least 25 states across the United States, prompting significant public health concerns. This heavily mutated strain of SARS-CoV-2 may evade immunity from both vaccines and prior infections, which could complicate efforts to control the pandemic.

BA.3.2 was first identified in November 2024 in South Africa and has since spread to at least 23 countries. It is characterized by 70 to 75 mutations in its spike protein, which may reduce the effectiveness of existing vaccines against infection, although they are still expected to provide protection against severe disease.

In the U.S., BA.3.2 was first detected in June 2025 in a traveler returning from the Netherlands. Since then, it has rapidly proliferated, accounting for approximately 30% of cases in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands. Nationwide, about 3.7% of sewage samples have shown the presence of BA.3.2, indicating its widespread circulation.

Symptoms associated with BA.3.2 include cough, fever, sore throat, congestion, shortness of breath, loss of smell or taste, fatigue, headache, and gastrointestinal issues. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination, stating that it will still help limit cases despite the variant’s mutations. Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., noted, “It has a lot of mutations that may cause it to look different to your immune system.”

Despite these concerns, health officials, including Dr. Adolfo García-Sastre, have indicated that there is currently no evidence that BA.3.2 is causing more severe disease or hospitalizations compared to previous strains. This variant has been classified as a ‘variant under monitoring’ by the World Health Organization since December 2025.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact reasons for the resurgence of BA.3.2, and the long-term impact of this variant on public health remains uncertain. As the situation evolves, continued surveillance and research will be crucial in understanding the implications of this emerging strain.

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