A “highly mutated” COVID-19 variant, officially designated BA.3.2 and nicknamed “Cicada,” is gaining significant traction across the United States and Europe. As of March 31, 2026, health authorities have confirmed the variant’s presence in at least 25 U.S. states, raising concerns among experts about its potential to drive a “summer surge.”
The variant has earned its nickname because, much like the insect, it remained “underground” or at very low levels for nearly a year after its initial discovery before suddenly emerging as a notable player on the global stage.
The Emergence of the “Cicada” Variant
While many earlier variants were descendants of the dominant JN.1 lineage, BA.3.2 is genetically distinct. It is a descendant of the older BA.3 Omicron branch, which briefly circulated in early 2022 but was largely outcompeted by BA.4 and BA.5.
- First Detection: November 22, 2024, in South Africa.
- Global Spread: It began picking up steam internationally in late 2025.
- Current Status: As of February 2026, it accounted for up to 30% of infections in several Eastern European countries, including Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands.
- U.S. Presence: Detected in wastewater and clinical samples across 25 states, including California, New York, Florida, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.
Why Experts are Concerned: 75 Mutations
The most striking feature of the Cicada variant is its mutation profile. Scientists have identified between 70 and 75 mutations in the spike protein alone. The spike protein is the part of the virus that attaches to human cells and is the primary target for the antibodies generated by vaccines and prior infections.
Immune Evasion
Because BA.3.2 is so genetically different from the strains used to develop the 2025-2026 vaccine formulations (which targeted JN.1 and LP.8.1), it is exceptionally effective at “immune escape.”
- Vaccine Effectiveness: While vaccines are still expected to prevent severe hospitalization and death, they may be significantly less effective at preventing infection from this specific variant.
- Reinfection Risk: Individuals who recently recovered from other COVID strains may still be vulnerable to Cicada due to its unique spike protein structure.
Symptoms: The “Razorblade Throat”
While the overall severity of the illness does not appear to be higher than previous Omicron strains, doctors are noting a specific trend in reported symptoms.
- Severe Sore Throat: Many patients describe a “razorblade throat”—an intensely painful sore throat that makes swallowing difficult.
- Typical Omicron Symptoms: Fever, chills, persistent dry cough, fatigue, and muscle aches.
- Congestion: Runny nose and sinus pressure remain common.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Some patients are reporting nausea or reduced appetite more frequently with this strain.
- Loss of Taste/Smell: This symptom is now less common than it was in 2020-2021 but still occurs in some cases.
Projections: A 2026 Summer Surge?
Health organizations like the CDC and WHO have placed BA.3.2 on their “Variants Under Monitoring” (VUM) lists. The timing of its growth is particularly concerning for the upcoming summer months.
Experts warn that a combination of waning immunity from winter vaccinations and the highly evasive nature of Cicada could lead to a spike in cases as people travel and gather for summer holidays. However, because of “hybrid immunity” (protection from both past infection and vaccination), the risk of overwhelming the healthcare system remains low compared to the early pandemic years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is it called the “Cicada” variant?
A: The nickname was coined by researchers because the variant (BA.3.2) was first detected in late 2024 but stayed at near-zero levels for almost a year. Its sudden “emergence” in early 2026 mirrors the life cycle of cicada insects that stay dormant for years before appearing all at once.
Q: Will current COVID tests detect BA.3.2?
A: Yes. Standard PCR and rapid antigen tests are still effective at detecting the presence of the virus, regardless of the variant’s mutations.
Q: Are current vaccines useless against it?
A: No. While they may not prevent you from catching a mild case, the “T-cell” immunity provided by vaccines is still highly effective at keeping you out of the hospital and preventing death.
Q: Which 25 states have detected the variant?
A: As of the latest CDC report, states including California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania have confirmed detections.
