Understanding the BA.3.2 “Cicada” COVID-19 Variant: What You Need to Know
While COVID-19 may not dominate daily headlines as it once did, health authorities are closely tracking a new subvariant known as BA.3.2. Informally nicknamed “Cicada,” this heavily mutated strain of the Omicron family has emerged as a point of interest for global health organizations. Although it’s currently classified as a variant under monitoring, its genetic profile and ability to evade certain protections make it an important development in the ongoing evolution of SARS-CoV-2.
What Is the BA.3.2 “Cicada” Variant?
BA.3.2 is a subvariant of the Omicron lineage. It is descended from an ancestral version of the BA.3 subvariant that had not been in circulation since early 2022. The nickname “Cicada” is an informal term used by researchers and the media, rather than an official scientific designation.
What makes BA.3.2 particularly notable is its high mutation rate. The variant possesses more than 50 mutations on its spike protein compared to its ancestor, BA.3, and more than 70 spike mutations when compared to the original Wuhan wildtype virus. This high level of mutation is why researchers initially flagged the variant as concerning.
Current Spread and Global Status
First detected in a sample from South Africa on November 22, 2024, BA.3.2 has since spread internationally. As of April 2026, the variant has been confirmed in more than 23 countries. In the United States, wastewater surveillance has detected the variant across 29 states.
On December 5, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially designated BA.3.2 as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM). This is the lowest monitoring tier, indicating that while the variant has genetic changes that could affect its behavior, there isn’t yet confirmed evidence that it poses a higher risk than other currently circulating strains. As of the most recent data, its estimated global share of recent sequences is less than 5%.
Symptoms of BA.3.2
Most clinical data suggests that BA.3.2 symptoms are similar to other recent Omicron-lineage subvariants, primarily affecting the upper respiratory tract. Common symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Runny or congested nose
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Fever and headache
- Body aches
Some reports too indicate less common symptoms such as sneezing, skin rashes, and fainting. Notably, night sweats have been identified as a unique symptom associated with the broader Omicron family. Some individuals may also experience a loss of taste or smell, though this is less frequent than in earlier versions of the virus.
Severity and Vaccine Effectiveness
Current evidence indicates that BA.3.2 is not more dangerous than other strains currently in circulation. The CDC has not reported a nationwide increase in severe disease, and overall trends for emergency visits and hospitalizations have been moving downward, despite localized increases in states like Florida and Massachusetts.
However, the variant’s mutations may impact immunity. A study published in the journal Lancet found that current COVID-19 vaccines are less effective against BA.3.2 than they are against the dominant strains. While the vaccines still provide protection, the “Cicada” variant demonstrates a greater capacity to evade some of the acquired protections people have developed over the last few years.
Key Takeaways
- Official Name: BA.3.2 (Informal name: Cicada).
- WHO Status: Variant Under Monitoring (VUM).
- Key Characteristic: Over 70 mutations relative to the original virus.
- Spread: Detected in 23+ countries and 29 US states.
- Severity: No evidence of increased severity or hospitalizations compared to other current strains.
- Vaccines: Still provide protection, though potentially less effective than against other dominant strains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cicada variant a “Variant of Concern”?
No. The WHO has classified it as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM), which is a lower tier than a Variant of Concern (VOC).
Should I be worried about the high number of mutations?
While the number of mutations is significant and helps the virus evade some immunity, health authorities have not identified BA.3.2 as being more dangerous or causing more severe disease than other circulating variants.
How do I protect myself?
While the variant can evade some protections, vaccines still offer a level of defense. Following standard respiratory health guidance remains the best approach to minimizing risk.
Looking Ahead
BA.3.2 is a reminder of the virus’s ability to remain dormant and re-emerge with significant mutations. While it is not currently the dominant strain, health organizations like the CDC and WHO continue to monitor its trajectory to determine if it will eventually push to the forefront of circulating variants. For now, the focus remains on surveillance and the continued evaluation of vaccine efficacy.