A new variant of COVID-19, dubbed “cicada” due to its unusual pattern of emergence, is currently being monitored by public health officials. Officially designated BA.3.2, the variant first appeared in 2024, experienced a period of dormancy, and has recently resurfaced in the United States, prompting renewed attention to COVID-19 trends as we head into the fall and winter months. While it’s still too early to determine the extent of its impact, experts are closely tracking its spread and assessing its potential to cause more severe illness or evade existing immunity.
The nickname “cicada” is apt, according to researchers, because of the variant’s behavior. Like the periodical cicadas that emerge in cycles, BA.3.2 appeared, then faded, and is now back in circulation. This makes it different from many other variants that have risen and fallen more rapidly. Understanding this pattern is key to predicting its trajectory and preparing appropriate public health responses.
As of November 1, 2024, BA.3.2 accounts for approximately 3.8% of circulating COVID-19 strains in the U.S., according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s COVID Data Tracker provides the most up-to-date information on variant proportions nationwide.
What Makes BA.3.2 Different?
BA.3.2 is a sublineage of Omicron, the dominant variant that has circulated globally since late 2021. It carries several mutations that differentiate it from previous strains, but the significance of these changes is still under investigation. Scientists are particularly interested in whether these mutations affect the virus’s transmissibility, its ability to cause severe disease, and its susceptibility to existing antibodies from prior infection or vaccination.
Early laboratory studies suggest that BA.3.2 may have a modest ability to evade antibodies generated by previous infections and vaccinations, but the extent of this immune evasion is still being determined. PBS NewsHour’s coverage highlights the ongoing research into this aspect of the variant.
“We’re seeing some evidence that BA.3.2 might be a little bit better at evading immunity than some of the other variants we’ve been tracking,” explains Dr. Eric Topol, founder and director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, in a recent interview. “But it’s not a dramatic difference, and the vaccines still offer significant protection against severe illness.”
Symptoms and Severity
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that BA.3.2 causes more severe illness than other circulating variants. The symptoms associated with BA.3.2 appear to be similar to those of other Omicron subvariants, including fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, muscle aches, and loss of taste or smell. However, symptom presentation can vary significantly from person to person.
It’s important to note that individuals who are unvaccinated, immunocompromised, or elderly remain at higher risk of severe illness from any COVID-19 variant, including BA.3.2. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations and boosters is the most effective way to protect against severe outcomes.
Tracking the Spread and Public Health Response
Public health agencies are actively monitoring the spread of BA.3.2 through genomic surveillance. This involves analyzing virus samples to identify the different variants that are circulating in the population. The CDC, in collaboration with state and local health departments, is tracking the variant’s prevalence and geographic distribution.
While no immediate changes to public health recommendations have been made, officials are emphasizing the importance of practicing preventative measures, such as getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, improving ventilation, and practicing good hand hygiene. The CDC continues to recommend that individuals stay home if they are sick and receive tested for COVID-19 if they experience symptoms.
Here’s a quick look at key dates in the recent emergence of BA.3.2:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2024 | Initial detection of BA.3.2 |
| Mid-2024 | BA.3.2 prevalence declines, entering a period of dormancy |
| Late 2024 | Resurgence of BA.3.2 detected in the U.S. |
| November 1, 2024 | BA.3.2 accounts for ~3.8% of circulating strains (CDC data) |
What Does This Mean for You?
For most individuals, the emergence of BA.3.2 is not a cause for immediate alarm. However, it serves as a reminder that COVID-19 is still circulating and evolving. Staying informed about the latest developments and taking appropriate precautions can facilitate protect yourself and others.
The CDC provides comprehensive information on COVID-19, including variant tracking, vaccination recommendations, and guidance on preventing the spread of the virus. Visit the CDC website for the most current updates.
The next key checkpoint will be the CDC’s updated variant report, scheduled for release on November 15, 2024. This report will provide a more detailed assessment of BA.3.2’s prevalence and potential impact. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
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