A new, highly mutated COVID-19 variant known as “cicada variant” (BA.3.2) is now circulating in at least 25 U.S. states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The health experts are closely monitoring this strain because of its large number of mutations and its quiet emergence after staying largely undetected for years.
As concerns mount regarding a potential surge in COVID cases in the U.S. during the summer, many Americans are asking some key questions: Is the Cicada variant dangerous? What symptoms should you watch out for? And will existing vaccines remain effective?
In this article, we break down everything about the new COVID variant 2026, including symptoms, risks, and what experts recommend.
Table of Contents
What is the ‘cicada’ covid variant (ba.3.2)?
The Cicada variant, (BA.3.2), is a sub-branch of the earlier Omicron BA.3 lineage. It was first detected in South Africa in November 2024 and has since been identified in at least 23 countries, including several states in the U.S..
According to the Evolutionary biologist Dr. T. Ryan Gregory The nickname “Cicada” because the variant remained mostly “underground” and undetected for an extended period before beginning to re-emerge.
What makes this variant particularly notable is its high mutation count: approximately 70–75 mutations, especially in the spike protein. These changes in the spike protein, the part of the virus that helps it attach to human cells. So, raise questions regarding potential immune escape from previous infections or existing vaccines.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has placed the cicada variant on its “variants under monitoring” list.
Why experts are concerned about the cicada variant
Health authorities and researchers are watching the Cicada variant carefully because of
1. High number of mutations
The BA.3.2 variant possesses an unusually high number of mutations compared to previous strains. Some of these mutations are associated with increased transmissibility and the ability to evade the immune system.
2. Potential for immune evasion
Preliminary data suggests that this variant may, to some extent, bypass immunity acquired through previous infection or vaccination. However, while this does not imply that vaccines are ineffective, it could lead to an increase in cases of “breakthrough infections” (infections occurring even after vaccination).
3. Rapid global spread
This variant has already been detected in several regions, including the United States, indicating a significant potential for rapid international dissemination.
4. Risk of a summer surge in cases
Experts have warned that this new strain could trigger a surge in COVID cases in 2026, particularly during the summer months, when people tend to travel more and gather in larger numbers.
Despite these concerns, it is important to note that research into this variant is still ongoing, and findings may evolve as more data becomes available.
Symptoms of Cicada variant
Symptoms of the COVID cicada variant appear consistent with other recent COVID-19 strains. There is currently no evidence that BA.3.2 causes more severe illness than circulating variants.
Common cicada COVID symptoms include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat (sometimes described as severe or “razorblade throat”)
- Cough
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
- Fever or chills
- Changes in taste or smell
- Body aches (in some cases) etc.
How fast is the cicada variant spreading in the U.S.?
According to data from February 11, 2026, the CDC has detected the Cicada variant (BA.3.2) in wastewater samples collected from 132 sites across at least 25 U.S. states. Furthermore, this variant has also been detected in nasal swabs from four travelers, aircraft wastewater, and clinical samples from five patients.
At the national level, BA.3.2 still accounts for a very small percentage of cases and has not yet become prominent enough to appear in the CDC’s main variant proportion tracker. However, cases of this variant are gradually increasing, and in some European countries, it has reached up to 30% of sequenced cases.
Is cicada variant more dangerous? Vaccine protection update
One of the most important questions people are asking is whether the Cicada variant causes more severe illness.
But according to current evidence, So far there is no evidence that the cicada variant causes more severe disease than other recent strains. Hospitalization and death rates linked specifically to BA.3.2 remain low.
The most concerning part is its mutation profile. According to the current laboratory studies, the variant shows “immune escape characteristics,” meaning it may partially reduce the effectiveness of antibodies from prior infection or the current 2025–2026 COVID vaccines. But health experts emphasize that vaccines still likely offer meaningful protection against severe illness and hospitalization, even if they are less effective at preventing mild infection.
What the cdc and experts recommend right now
According to “public health officials” advise the same layered prevention strategies that have worked throughout the “COVID-19” pandemic:
- Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, especially if you are elderly, have a weakened immune system, or have an underlying health condition.
- If you experience respiratory symptoms, get tested.
- If you are at high risk, consider wearing a well-fitting mask (such as an N95) in crowded places.
- Improve indoor ventilation and maintain good hand hygiene.
- If you test positive, stay home and self-isolate.
- If symptoms are severe or a high-risk group, then contact health care professionals or doctor
FAQ
What are cicada variant symptoms?
They are commonly typical COVID symptoms: sore throat, cough, runny nose, fatigue, headache, and possible loss of taste/smell.
Which U.S. states have the cicada variant?
Detections have been reported in at least 25 states, including California, New York, Florida, Texas, Michigan, and others listed above, primarily through wastewater monitoring.
Will the current COVID vaccine protect against BA.3.2?
It may be less effective against infection but should still reduce the risk of severe outcomes. Monitor CDC guidance for future updates.