Understanding the 'Cicada' Variant

A highly mutated COVID-19 variant, known as BA.3.2 and nicknamed 'Cicada,' is currently spreading across at least 25 states in the U.S. While national COVID-19 cases remain relatively low, this strain is gaining global traction after emerging over a year ago.

The variant is a descendant of the 2022 omicron subvariant BA.3. According to Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., a virologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the strain spent significant time "underground" before re-emerging. It was first identified in South Africa in November 2024 and arrived in the U.S. in June 2025 via a traveler at San Francisco International Airport.

Genetic Mutations and Immunity

What distinguishes BA.3.2 is its significant number of mutations—between 70 and 75—in its spike protein. Experts suggest these genetic changes may allow the virus to better evade immunity gained from previous infections or vaccinations. However, Dr. Dana Mazo of NYU Langone Health notes that some mutations might also hinder the virus's ability to bind to human cells effectively.

Severity and Public Health Impact

Despite concerns regarding its genetic profile, health experts emphasize that there is currently no evidence that BA.3.2 causes more severe illness or increased hospitalizations compared to previous strains. Dr. Adolfo García-Sastre of Mt. Sinai notes that while the variant is spreading, it has not triggered a massive surge in infections.

Monitoring and Prevention

  • Surveillance: Wastewater data indicates the variant has been detected in approximately 3.7% of samples nationwide.
  • Vaccination: While current vaccines targeting the JN.1 lineage show reduced effectiveness against BA.3.2 in lab studies, they are still expected to provide protection against severe disease.
  • Symptoms: Clinical symptoms remain consistent with other currently circulating COVID-19 variants.

Experts recommend that individuals stay home when sick, test if symptoms arise, and wear masks in high-risk settings. Those at higher risk, including adults over 65 or those with weakened immune systems, should consult their doctors regarding booster options.