New COVID Variant Raises Questions, but Experts See No Major Spike

Quick Smiles:

• The variant has not shown a sustained growth advantage over other circulating strains.
• Symptoms remain similar to previous versions and typically resolve with supportive care.
• Existing antiviral drugs continue to be effective against this new lineage.

A new COVID-19 variant nicknamed “Cicada” is garnering attention from health experts as it resurfaces after a long period of quiet replication.

Scientists named the BA.3.2 strain after the insect because it remained underground for years before recently emerging in at least 25 states.

While this strain features a significant number of mutations in its spike protein, experts emphasize that there is no evidence suggesting it causes more severe illness or increased hospitalizations.

The virus may look different to the immune system, yet health officials noted it has not yet caused a major surge in infections.

“It looks scary on paper, but it hasn’t really made a big impact in terms of disease in most places yet,” says Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., a virologist at Johns Hopkins.

Current vaccines and antiviral treatments remain valuable tools for maintaining public health and protecting against severe outcomes.

Experts believe that existing immunity will still provide some cross-reactivity to help the body recognize the virus.

Health professionals continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure communities stay informed and prepared.

Maintaining updated vaccinations remains an excellent way to support long-term wellness and peace of mind.

Source