A new COVID-19 variant, known as BA.3.2 and informally called “Cicada,” is drawing attention from global health authorities as it begins to spread more widely across multiple countries.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the variant has been circulating quietly for several years but is now appearing more frequently in the United States. The World Health Organization has added BA.3.2 to its list of “variants under monitoring,” reflecting growing international concern.

Health data indicates that the variant has been identified in more than 20 countries and, in some regions, accounts for up to 30% of COVID-19 cases. In the U.S., its presence has been detected in wastewater samples across at least 25 states, suggesting broader community spread.

Experts say BA.3.2 is notable for its high number of mutations—estimated between 70 and 75—which distinguishes it from earlier strains of the virus. While this raises questions about its ability to evade immunity from prior infections or vaccinations, scientists caution that more research is needed to fully understand its impact.

Dr. Robert Hopkins Jr. of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases noted that the variant was first identified in a traveler entering the U.S. in mid-2025, with the first confirmed domestic case reported in January 2026. Globally, the earliest known case dates back to South Africa in late 2024, with a noticeable increase in spread beginning in September 2025.

Despite its growing presence, early observations suggest that symptoms associated with the Cicada variant are similar to those seen in previous strains. Common signs include runny or blocked nose, fatigue, headache, cough, sore throat, and changes in taste or smell. Some patients have also reported an unusually severe sore throat, sometimes described as a “razorblade” sensation.

So far, there is no clear evidence that BA.3.2 causes more severe illness than other circulating variants. However, experts warn that its mutation profile could reduce the effectiveness of current vaccines to some extent, though vaccination is still expected to provide strong protection against severe disease and death.

The emergence of Cicada comes amid concerns over declining vaccination rates and reduced public health measures, factors that may leave populations more vulnerable to new waves of infection. While it remains uncertain whether BA.3.2 will become the dominant strain, health officials emphasize the importance of continued monitoring and preparedness.

As the situation evolves, researchers and public health agencies are closely tracking the variant to better understand its transmissibility, severity, and potential impact on existing immunity.