Health officials in the United States and abroad are actively tracking a new, highly mutated COVID-19 variant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization are monitoring BA.3.2, nicknamed "Cicada," after surveillance noted its spread across more than 20 countries. The variant, first detected globally in late 2024, has recently been found in wastewater samples from 25 U.S. states, prompting concern about its potential to drive future infection surges.
Key Takeaways:
- New variant BA.3.2, dubbed "Cicada," is being monitored by U.S. and global health agencies.
- It contains 70-75 mutations, making it distinct from recently dominant JN.1 lineage strains.
- The variant has been detected in wastewater in 25 U.S. states but remains at low national levels.
- Symptoms are reported to be similar to other COVID-19 infections, including sore throat.
A Variant Emerging After Years Undetected
The "Cicada" nickname reflects the variant’s pattern of remaining largely "underground" since its first detection. The initial U.S. case was diagnosed in January, following its discovery in a traveler in mid-2025. Its significant number of mutations raises questions about how effectively existing vaccines will prevent infection, though they are still expected to protect against severe outcomes.
Spread Detected Through National Wastewater Surveillance
CDC data shows BA.3.2 was present in wastewater samples from 132 sites across 25 states as of February 11. While it accounts for roughly 30% of cases in some European nations like Germany, it was in fewer than 4% of U.S. wastewater samples in mid-March. Variant XFG remains the dominant strain nationally.
Health Officials Urge Standard Precautions Amid Monitoring
Experts advise the public to follow established COVID-19 guidance. Recommendations include testing when sick, staying home if positive, wearing high-quality masks, and keeping up to date with available vaccines. Current data does not indicate the Cicada variant causes more severe illness than other circulating strains.
