A Covid-19 subvariant called BA.3.2 (also known as “Cicada”) is spreading rapidly in the United States. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the condition has occurred in 25 states and that the incidence is currently on the rise nationwide.
Read more: Highly mutated BA.3.2 ‘Cicada’ COVID variant hits 25 US states: See full list
BA.3.2 What are the Cicada variants?
According to the New York Post, the BA.3.2 variant was first discovered in South Africa in late 2024 and began to spread more widely in 2025, with more than 20 countries reporting cases.
The omicron variety first appeared in late 2021 and is the ancestor of BA.3.2. Reports indicate that the variant’s spike protein carries approximately 70-75 mutations, posing a worrying strain to citizens.
However, one doctor told The Independent there was no immediate cause for alarm. As of now, there is no indication that this variety is more harmful or causes more severe disease than the variety popular in the 2025-2026 winter.
However, currently Coronavirus disease According to doctors, the vaccine may not be as effective due to the presence of multiple mutations.
Additionally, the spike protein is the part of the virus that the vaccine uses to induce recognition by the immune system, The Independent reported.
Current COVID-19 vaccines are designed to protect against the JN strain. Since January 2024, it has been the most prevalent strain of the same lineage in the United States.
Cicada symptoms: What to look out for?
Health experts say symptoms of BA.3.2 cicada This variant is largely similar to earlier Omicron strains, and no new or unusual signs have been reported so far.
Common symptoms include:
- sore throat
- dry cough
- Fatigue and body aches
- fever and chills
- Headache
Some patients may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as mild difficulty breathing or nausea, according to the CDC.
Doctors note that most cases appear mild to moderate, similar to influenza-like illness, especially in vaccinated individuals.
What precautions can you take?
To prevent getting or spreading COVID-19, people can take the following precautions that the CDC has learned about during the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands before eating any food or after coming into contact with someone who is sick.
- If you are experiencing the above symptoms, please take a day off, stay home and take care of yourself to avoid spreading the virus further.
- If symptoms persist, contact your doctor or physician for specific advice specific to your situation.
