Understanding the BA.3.2 “Cicada” Variant and the Ongoing Challenge of Long COVID

As we navigate the evolving landscape of COVID-19 in 2026, the emergence of new viral strains continues to shape public health discussions. Most recently, the BA.3.2 variant—nicknamed “cicada” by evolutionary biologist T. Ryan Gregory—has gained attention for its distinct genetic profile and its spread across the United States.

What is the BA.3.2 “Cicada” Variant?

BA.3.2 is a heavily mutated version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. According to Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., a virologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the variant features a significant number of mutations in its spike protein that set it apart from other currently circulating strains. These genetic changes are of interest to researchers because they may allow the virus to look different to the human immune system, potentially reducing the protection provided by prior infections or vaccinations.

The nickname “cicada” reflects the variant’s trajectory. Much like the insect that stays underground for years before re-emerging, BA.3.2 was detected over a year ago and remained at low levels before beginning to increase in prevalence last fall. By early April 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the variant had been detected in more than half of U.S. States. In December 2025, the World Health Organization officially classified BA.3.2 as a “variant under monitoring.”

The Reality of Long COVID

While new variants like BA.3.2 continue to circulate, the medical community remains focused on the long-term impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Long COVID is a chronic condition that can occur after an infection and persists for at least three months. It is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that may improve, worsen, or resolve and re-emerge over weeks, months, or even years.

The CDC notes that anyone who has had a SARS-CoV-2 infection, including children, can develop Long COVID. While the condition occurs more frequently in individuals who experienced severe initial illness, it can affect those with milder cases as well. Importantly, some people may develop the condition even if they are unaware of when they were originally infected.

Key Takeaways on Long COVID

• No Approved Tests: Currently, there are no approved diagnostic tests to determine if a specific symptom or condition is definitively caused by Long COVID.
• Management Challenges: There are no currently approved treatments for Long COVID, making it a difficult and often isolating experience for patients.
• Cumulative Risk: Because individuals can be reinfected with SARS-CoV-2 multiple times, each infection carries a risk of developing Long COVID.
• Prevention: Following core strategies to lower the risk of severe COVID-19 illness remains the most effective way to prevent the development of Long COVID.

Moving Forward

Living with the uncertainty of new variants and the potential for chronic symptoms underscores the importance of staying informed through reliable public health data. New York State, for example, continues to monitor key aspects of the epidemic, including hospitalization data, variant prevalence, and vaccination rates, through its official Department of Health dashboards.

If you are experiencing symptoms that have persisted for months following a COVID-19 infection, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider. While the science of Long COVID and emerging variants like BA.3.2 is still developing, maintaining open communication with medical professionals is the best approach to managing your health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.