The BA.3.2 variant of COVID-19, informally referred to as “cicada,” is currently spreading across the United States. This highly mutated strain has emerged as public health officials track its potential impact on immunity and infection rates. Though COVID-19 cases are relatively low, the cicada variant is gaining attention due to its mutations.
What Is the Cicada COVID Variant?
First identified in November 2024 in South Africa, the BA.3.2 variant is a descendant of the BA.3 subvariant of omicron. While BA.3 briefly circulated, it eventually waned but did not completely disappear. Over the next two years, BA.3.2 accumulated numerous mutations, emerging as a variant of interest in late 2025.
BA.3.2 features 70-75 mutations in its spike protein, a significant number compared to previous strains. These changes could allow it to evade immune responses from prior infections or vaccinations. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has classified BA.3.2 as genetically distinct from other variants encountered recently.
Spread of the Variant
As of February 2026, BA.3.2 has been reported in at least 25 states within the U.S., and its presence is noted globally in over 23 countries. The variant accounted for notable cases in countries like Denmark and the Netherlands.
- States with detected BA.3.2 cases include:
- California
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- And more
Initial detection in the U.S. was linked to a traveler from the Netherlands in June 2025. As of now, health officials are monitoring its spread, although it has not progressed to causing a surge in infections.
Symptoms of the BA.3.2 Variant
The symptoms associated with BA.3.2 are consistent with those seen in other COVID-19 variants. Common symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of smell or taste
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Gastrointestinal issues
While symptoms can vary, they typically resolve with supportive care. Current antiviral treatments remain effective against this variant.
Vaccine Effectiveness Against Cicada
The changes in BA.3.2’s spike protein raise concerns about potential vaccine effectiveness. Current vaccines targeting other variants may be less effective against cicada, although researchers believe they still provide some level of protection against severe disease.
The WHO maintains that existing vaccinations are expected to continue guarding against severe outcomes. Annual updates to vaccines may also include modifications to better address emerging variants like BA.3.2.
Looking Ahead
As BA.3.2 continues to spread, ongoing research will determine its potential to cause increased illness or hospitalization. Health experts reiterate the importance of vaccination, especially for high-risk groups.
While the situation remains fluid, current data suggests that BA.3.2 has not shown a consistent growth advantage over more dominant variants. Monitoring its trajectory will be crucial as public health efforts adapt to the evolving landscape of COVID-19.
