Understanding the ‘Cicada’ COVID-19 Variant (BA.3.2): What You Need to Recognize

A recent COVID-19 variant is gaining attention from global health officials. Officially designated as BA.3.2 and nicknamed “Cicada,” this highly mutated strain is currently circulating in the United States and dozens of other countries. While it is not yet the dominant strain, its unique genetic makeup has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to monitor it closely.

What Is the Cicada Variant?

The Cicada variant is a member of the Omicron family. It is described as a “hyper-mutated” strain, possessing between 70 and 75 mutations. These genetic changes are particularly concentrated in the virus’s spike protein, which is the part of the virus that allows it to enter human cells.

The nickname “Cicada” was coined by T. Ryan Gregory, Ph.D., a professor of evolutionary biology at the University of Guelph. The name refers to the variant’s pattern of emergence: similar to the insect, BA.3.2 was first identified in November 2024 but remained relatively dormant or “underground” before ramping up in several countries last fall ([Today]).

Spread and Detection

As of February 2026, the CDC reported that BA.3.2 has been detected in at least 25 U.S. States. Detection methods include clinical samples from patients, nasal swabs from travelers, airplane wastewater samples, and 132 wastewater samples ([Stony Brook Medicine]).

Globally, the variant has spread to at least 23 countries ([CBS News]). Since of this spread and its mutations, the World Health Organization officially classified BA.3.2 as a “variant under monitoring” in December 2025 ([Today]).

Immune Evasion and Vaccine Effectiveness

The primary concern for public health experts is the variant’s ability to bypass existing protections. Because BA.3.2 looks different to the immune system due to its numerous mutations, it may be more effective at escaping immunity gained from previous infections or vaccinations.

A study published in the journal Lancet indicates that current COVID-19 vaccines are less effective against BA.3.2 when compared to the strains that were previously dominant. However, the study also notes that these vaccines still provide a level of protection ([CBS News]).

Symptoms and Severity

Currently, there is no evidence that the Cicada variant causes more severe illness or leads to an increase in hospitalizations compared to other Omicron subvariants ([CBS News]). Nationwide, COVID-19 case rates, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations are trending downward, though some states, such as Florida and Massachusetts, may see localized increases in cases.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms of the BA.3.2 variant align with general COVID-19 indicators, including:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Congestion

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cicada variant the dominant strain?

No. While it is spreading, it is not currently the dominant strain in the U.S. Experts are monitoring whether it will eventually push to the front of the line ([CBS News]).

Do I need a new vaccine for BA.3.2?

Public health agencies like the CDC are currently evaluating the clinical impact and immune evasion of BA.3.2. While some effectiveness is reduced, existing vaccines still offer protection ([Stony Brook Medicine]).

How is the CDC tracking this variant?

The CDC uses a combination of clinical patient samples, traveler swabs, and wastewater monitoring to track the transmissibility and spread of the lineage ([Stony Brook Medicine]).

Looking Ahead

The emergence of BA.3.2 highlights the continuous evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While the “Cicada” variant’s ability to evade immunity is a point of concern, the lack of increased severity provides some reassurance. Health officials will continue to track the variant’s transmissibility and clinical outcomes to determine if updated public health guidance or vaccine adjustments are necessary.