The cicada COVID variant, officially designated as BA.3.2, is causing alarm as it spreads across the United States. This heavily mutated strain of SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in at least 25 states as of February 2026, raising concerns about its potential to evade immunity from vaccines and prior infections.
First identified in South Africa in November 2024, BA.3.2 has since made its way to at least 23 countries worldwide. The variant is characterized by an astonishing 70 to 75 mutations in its spike protein, which may significantly reduce the effectiveness of current vaccines against infection, although they are still expected to provide protection against severe disease.
Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., highlights the variant’s numerous mutations, stating, “It has a lot of mutations that may cause it to look different to your immune system.” This adaptability poses a challenge for public health officials as they work to monitor and control its spread.
Despite these concerns, experts like Dr. Adolfo García-Sastre reassure that there is currently no evidence suggesting that BA.3.2 causes more severe disease or hospitalizations compared to previous strains. This is a critical point, as it suggests that while the variant may be more transmissible, it does not necessarily lead to worse health outcomes.
As of February 2026, BA.3.2 accounts for approximately 30% of cases in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, indicating its rapid spread in Europe as well. In the U.S., a mere 3.7% of sewage samples nationwide have shown the presence of BA.3.2, but this figure may rise as more testing is conducted.
The variant’s name, ‘cicada,’ reflects its unusual emergence pattern, reminiscent of the insect’s lifecycle. This nomenclature underscores the unpredictable nature of viral evolution, especially in the context of a pandemic that has already seen numerous variants.
Symptoms associated with BA.3.2 include cough, fever, sore throat, congestion, and loss of smell or taste, among others. These symptoms are consistent with common COVID-19 manifestations, making it essential for individuals to remain vigilant.
Looking ahead, the exact reasons for the resurgence of BA.3.2 remain unclear, and the long-term impact on public health is uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed, but health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
As vaccination efforts persist, experts emphasize that vaccination is still crucial in limiting cases. Pekosz states, “Vaccination is still going to help limit cases,” reinforcing the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to combat the evolving threat of COVID-19 variants like BA.3.2.
