Scientists Monitor New 'Cicada' COVID-19 Variant

Public health officials globally are closely monitoring a new COVID-19 variant named 'Cicada', officially designated as BA.3.2.

conceptCOVID-19

otherCicada

otherBA.3.2

This variant, which first appeared in South Africa in November 2024, earned its nickname because it seemed to remain dormant like an insect before resurfacing in late 2025.

locationSouth Africa

As a descendant of the Omicron family, BA.3.2 is genetically distinct and highly mutated, with 70 to 75 changes in its spike protein.

conceptOmicron

otherBA.3.2

conceptspike protein

While this has raised concerns about potential immune escape, experts note that vaccines likely remain effective against severe illness.

techvaccine

Currently, BA.3.2 is a minority strain worldwide, though it has been detected in over 20 countries and is present in at least 25 U.S. states through wastewater surveillance.

otherBA.3.2

locationU.S.

While the scientific community continues to study its evolution, officials currently view the 'Cicada' variant as a low-level threat, advising the public to continue with standard health precautions.

otherCicada

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Comprehension Questions

Why was the new variant nicknamed 'Cicada'?

It appeared to remain dormant for a long time before re-emerging.

It has a high mutation rate.

It was first detected in a specific forest region.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

It appeared to remain dormant for a long time before re-emerging.

What is the primary genetic characteristic of BA.3.2?

It has fewer spike protein mutations than typical variants.

It is highly mutated, with roughly 70 to 75 spike protein substitutions and deletions.

It is identical to the JN.1 lineage.

Reveal Answer

✓

Correct Choice

It is highly mutated, with roughly 70 to 75 spike protein substitutions and deletions.

How do experts currently view the clinical severity of the Cicada variant?

It causes entirely new and unknown respiratory symptoms.

It is significantly more lethal than previous strains.

There is no evidence that it causes more severe disease than other recent variants.

Reveal Answer

✓

Correct Choice

There is no evidence that it causes more severe disease than other recent variants.

What is the status of the Cicada variant in the United States?

It has not been detected in the country yet.

It is a minority strain identified in at least 25 states.

It is the dominant strain causing most COVID-19 cases.

Reveal Answer

✓

Correct Choice

It is a minority strain identified in at least 25 states.

What is the expert consensus regarding current vaccines and the Cicada variant?

Existing vaccines are still expected to offer protection against severe illness and hospitalization.

New vaccines are currently mandatory for the entire population.

Vaccines are completely ineffective against this variant.

Reveal Answer

✓

Correct Choice

Existing vaccines are still expected to offer protection against severe illness and hospitalization.

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