A newly identified variant of COVID-19, named “Cicada,” is demonstrating a pattern of primarily infecting children, according to health officials. This marks a shift from previous COVID-19 strains, which typically impacted adults, especially older populations.

Global Spread of the Cicada Variant

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the “Cicada” variant has been detected in at least 23 countries worldwide. While it doesn’t currently represent a large percentage of cases in the United States, its presence is growing.

Detection in US Wastewater

The variant has been found in wastewater samples collected from over two dozen states across the U.S., indicating its increasing circulation. Reports regarding the presence of the Cicada strain are steadily rising, prompting increased monitoring by health experts.

Current Assessment and Future Outlook

Currently, scientists are not expressing significant concern regarding the “Cicada” variant, as it does not appear to cause more severe illness than other circulating strains. However, experts caution that it is too early to definitively predict its future spread or the effectiveness of existing vaccines against it.

Health officials are closely watching for a potential summer surge in cases as a result of the variant’s emergence. Continued surveillance and analysis will be crucial in understanding the long-term impact of “Cicada.”