The cicada COVID variant, known scientifically as BA.3.2, has emerged as a significant public health concern in the United States. First identified in South Africa in November 2024, this heavily mutated strain has since spread to at least 25 states, raising alarms among health officials and the public alike.
BA.3.2 is characterized by an astonishing 70 to 75 mutations in its spike protein, which may allow it to evade immunity from both vaccines and prior infections. As Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., noted, “It has a lot of mutations that may cause it to look different to your immune system.” This adaptability poses a challenge in the ongoing battle against COVID-19.
As of February 2026, BA.3.2 has been detected in at least 23 countries, with a notable presence in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, where it accounts for approximately 30% of cases. In the U.S., the variant was first detected in June 2025 in a traveler returning from the Netherlands, marking the beginning of its spread across the nation.
The World Health Organization classified BA.3.2 as a “variant under monitoring” in December 2025, reflecting the urgent need for vigilance. Symptoms associated with this variant include cough, fever, sore throat, and gastrointestinal issues, which are similar to those seen in earlier strains of the virus.
Despite its mutations, current evidence suggests that BA.3.2 is not causing more severe disease or hospitalizations compared to previous strains. Dr. Adolfo García-Sastre stated, “There’s no evidence that BA.3.2 is causing more severe disease or hospitalizations in countries where it’s more widespread.” Vaccines are expected to continue providing protection against severe disease, although their effectiveness against infection may be diminished.
The variant spreads primarily through inhaling infectious respiratory particles and prolonged face-to-face interactions, making it crucial for individuals to remain vigilant in practicing preventive measures. As of early 2026, about 3.7% of sewage samples nationwide have shown the presence of BA.3.2, indicating its growing prevalence.
While vaccination efforts continue to play a pivotal role in limiting cases, the long-term impact of BA.3.2 on public health remains uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact reasons for the resurgence of this variant, leaving health officials and the public to navigate an evolving landscape of COVID-19 variants.
