In just a few months, the 2020-21 Corona virus pandemic has made it clear that we are facing a dangerous enemy. Over time, various strains of the corona virus have infected millions of people, causing countless deaths. However, scientists quickly developed a vaccine against it and brought the infection under control. Everything seemed normal since last year. Masks were removed and people assumed the danger was over. But now again subtype BA.3.2 (BA.3.2) was first detected in South Africa in November 2024. As of March 2026, it has been detected in sewage and passenger samples from 25 US states. In Europe (eg Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands) its prevalence reached 30%.
A new type of corona virus has emerged and is spreading rapidly. A new subtype of Covid-19, BA.3.2, also known as Cicada, has emerged in the United States. According to reports, subtype BA.3.2 (BA.3.2) was first detected in South Africa in November 2024. As of March 2026, it has been found in samples from 25 US states. In Europe (eg Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands) its prevalence reached 30%. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified it as a ‘Variant Under Monitoring’ (VUM). Let’s take a closer look at the new subtype of Covid-19, BA.3.2.
– The strain was first identified in South Africa in late December 2024 and became widespread in 2025.
– It is now found in more than 20 countries.
– This is a descendant of the Omicron variant that emerged in December 2021.
– There are approximately 70-75 mutations in its spike protein.
– According to experts, this type does not pose any major threat at present. It does not cause more severe disease than other strains that spread during the winter of 2025-2026.
– Several mutations can reduce the effectiveness of current covid vaccines against it.
Symptoms of this strain are similar to those of the earlier Omicron strain. No new or unusual symptoms have yet appeared. The main symptoms are as follows:
– Sore throat
– Dry cough
– Fatigue and body aches
– Fever and chills
– Headache
To prevent contracting and spreading COVID-19, follow the CDC’s general guidelines:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before eating or after coming in contact with a sick person.
2. If you are experiencing the above symptoms, stay home, rest, and distance yourself from others to prevent the spread of the virus.
3. If symptoms persist or become more severe, contact a doctor for advice.
The BA.3.2 cicada variant is a highly mutated omicron sub-variant of Covid-19, which may be more effective at evading immunity. However, there is no evidence yet that it causes more severe disease or death than the earlier variants. The vaccine still protects against serious infections, but getting an updated booster may be beneficial. The emergence of new variants of Covid cannot be stopped, so vigilance is always necessary.
