New ‘Cicada’ COVID-19 Variant BA.3.2 Spreading Rapidly Across United States
A new variant of COVID-19, designated as BA.3.2 and nicknamed “Cicada,” is experiencing a surge in transmission, particularly within the United States. While the strain is spreading quickly, health experts suggest its severity may be lower than that of previous iterations of the virus.
The Cicada variant descends from the Omicron lineage first identified in 2021. However, BA.3.2 carries extensive genetic modifications, specifically within the spike protein responsible for allowing the virus to enter human cells. This evolutionary shift has likely contributed to its increased transmissibility.
The variant was first detected in Africa in November 2024 before beginning a global spread throughout 2025. By February 2026, it had been identified in more than 20 countries. In the United States, the first case was recorded in June 2025 via an international traveler. Since then, the virus has been detected in patients and through wastewater surveillance—a critical early warning system—across approximately 29 states, as noted in reports by CNN Arabic.
Dr. Jamal Shaaban, the former Dean of the National Heart Institute, has highlighted that while the variant is highly contagious, its virulence is lower than previous strains. According to Dr. Shaaban, the symptoms remain similar to earlier COVID-19 infections, primarily featuring:
- Elevated body temperature (fever)
- Runny nose
- Mild respiratory symptoms
To mitigate the risk of infection, health experts recommend prioritizing rest, wearing protective masks, and avoiding densely crowded environments. Dr. Shaaban also cautioned that respiratory viruses typically proliferate during periods of weather instability, urging the public to remain vigilant during seasonal transitions.
The emergence of BA.3.2 underscores the ongoing challenge of viral evolution and the necessity of continuous genomic monitoring to protect public health. For those seeking more information on the risks and essential details regarding the new variant, staying updated with official health guidelines is advised.
While the “Cicada” variant is currently spreading outside of Egypt and heavily within the U.S., the consensus among specialists like Dr. Shaaban is that the reduced severity of this strain is a positive sign, provided that preventative measures are maintained to protect vulnerable populations. This development emphasizes the critical role of wastewater monitoring in identifying new strains before they lead to widespread clinical surges, as detailed by Al-Masry Al-Youm.
