Reaction from the field
The cicada COVID variant, officially designated as BA.3.2, has emerged as a significant concern in the ongoing battle against the pandemic. This highly mutated variant, first identified in South Africa in November 2024, is now present in at least 25 states across the United States as of February 2026. The implications of its spread are profound, as BA.3.2 may evade immunity from both vaccines and prior infections, 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 is critical for the virus’s ability to infect human cells. Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., a prominent virologist, noted, “It has a lot of mutations that may cause it to look different to your immune system.” This adaptability could potentially undermine the effectiveness of existing vaccines, which were designed to target earlier strains of the virus.
Despite these concerns, some experts urge caution. Dr. Adolfo García-Sastre has pointed out that there is currently no evidence suggesting that BA.3.2 is causing more severe disease or hospitalizations in countries where it has become widespread. This is a crucial distinction, as it suggests that while the variant may be more transmissible or capable of evading immune responses, it does not necessarily lead to worse health outcomes.
As of March 21, 2026, BA.3.2 was detected in approximately 11% of wastewater samples in the U.S., indicating its growing prevalence. The variant has also been reported in at least 23 countries since its initial identification, highlighting its global reach. The World Health Organization classified BA.3.2 as a “variant under monitoring” in December 2025, reflecting the need for ongoing surveillance and research.
Common symptoms associated with BA.3.2 include cough, fever or chills, sore throat, congestion, shortness of breath, loss of smell or taste, fatigue, headache, and gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or vomiting. These symptoms are similar to those seen in previous COVID-19 variants, which may complicate diagnosis and response efforts.
Experts are divided on the implications of this variant for public health. Dr. Amesh A. Adalja, an infectious disease specialist, stated, “The existing vaccine is likely to protect against what matters most: serious illness.” He further emphasized that there is no major reason for concern at this point, suggesting that while vigilance is necessary, panic may be unwarranted.
However, uncertainties remain. The exact impact of BA.3.2 on disease severity is unclear, and it is uncertain how effective current vaccines will be against this variant. Additionally, the reasons for BA.3.2 resurfacing are not fully understood, leaving health officials with more questions than answers. Details remain unconfirmed.
As the situation evolves, continued monitoring and research will be essential in understanding BA.3.2’s behavior and its implications for public health. The cicada variant serves as a reminder of the virus’s ability to adapt and the importance of remaining vigilant in the fight against COVID-19.