A new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, known as "Cicada" (BA.3.2), has been placed under monitoring by health authorities in the United States due to the large number of mutations that could affect immunity.

The variant was first identified in South Africa in November 2024 and has since been detected in at least 23 countries. In the US, the first cases were recorded in June 2025 in a traveler from the Netherlands, and it has since been found in patient samples and in sewage, suggesting low community spread. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the “Cicada” variant is distinguished by a high number of mutations in the “spike” protein – about 70 to 75 – the part of the virus that allows it to enter human cells. This has raised concerns that it may have a higher ability to escape immunity created by vaccines or previous infections.

Laboratory studies support this assessment, showing that BA.3.2 can partially evade neutralization by antibodies. Scientists emphasize the need for continued genomic monitoring and for evaluating the effectiveness of vaccines and antiviral treatments. However, experts remain cautious: so far, this variant accounts for a very small percentage of cases in the US – less than 0.2% of samples analyzed from December 2025 to February 2026. There is also no evidence that it is associated with an increase in cases or with more severe forms of the disease.

Meanwhile, COVID-19 continues to have a significant impact on the healthcare system. It is estimated that during the period 2024–2025 it has caused up to 550 thousand hospitalizations and about 64 thousand deaths in the US. Preliminary data for the current season speak of tens of thousands of hospitalizations and deaths. Experts remind that, although the situation has improved compared to the first years of the pandemic, vigilance remains essential, especially in the face of new variants with still unknown characteristics.