The Cicada COVID Variant: What You Need to Understand About BA.3.2

A modern strain of COVID-19, designated as BA.3.2 and nicknamed “Cicada,” is currently spreading across the United States and Europe and is now spiking in Australia. While the rise of a new variant often sparks concern, medical experts suggest there’s no need for panic. The Cicada variant is being closely monitored, but early data indicates it doesn’t pose a significantly greater health threat than previous versions of the virus.

What is the Cicada Variant?

The Cicada variant (BA.3.2) is a descendant of the Omicron strain. First identified in South Africa several years ago, it has recently gained traction globally.

What makes this strain notable is its genetic composition. It carries between 70 and 75 genetic changes in its spike protein compared to its predecessors. These mutations are designed to help the virus enter human cells more efficiently and evade the body’s immune system.

Current Spread in Australia

After being detected in Western Australia in 2025, the Cicada strain has crept up across other states. While it’s not yet the dominant circulating strain, cases are rising rapidly. According to recent figures, New South Wales is currently seeing the highest volume of infections.

Case Distribution by State and Territory

• New South Wales: 10,247 cases
• Queensland: 6,378 cases
• Victoria: 3,635 cases
• South Australia: 1,932 cases
• Western Australia: 773 cases
• Tasmania: 263 cases
• Australian Capital Territory: 225 cases
• Northern Territory: 128 cases

Health Risks and Severity

Despite the rapid spread, health experts emphasize that the public shouldn’t be alarmed. Professor Patrick Reading of the World Health Organization (WHO) states there’s no evidence that this subvariant is associated with increased severity, higher hospitalization rates, or an increase in deaths.

Medical professionals are continuing to watch the variant closely as it spreads across the US and Europe, but the current consensus is that it does not represent a major escalation in the health threat posed by COVID-19.

Vaccine Effectiveness

One area of focus for researchers is how current vaccinations hold up against BA.3.2. Because of the significant mutations in the spike protein, Professor Reading noted that current vaccines might not perform as well against the Cicada variant as they do against other circulating strains.

Key Takeaways

• Variant Name: BA.3.2, commonly known as “Cicada.”
• Origin: First identified in South Africa; now spreading in the US, Europe, and Australia.
• Severity: No evidence of increased hospitalizations or deaths compared to other variants.
• Genetic Profile: An Omicron descendant with 70-75 mutations in its spike protein.
• Current Status: Spiking in Australia, particularly in NSW, but not yet the dominant strain.

As the Cicada variant continues to evolve and spread, health authorities will maintain monitoring genome sequencing to ensure that public health guidance remains current and evidence-based.