The "Cicada" Variant: What Coach Adasa's Community Needs to Know

You might have heard some buzz recently about a new COVID-19 variant nicknamed "Cicada." Just like the insect it's named after, this variant seemed to lie dormant for a while before re-emerging. As your coach, I believe it's important to stay informed about developments like this, so let's break down what we know in simple terms.

What is Cicada?

According to research, The "Cicada" variant is officially known as BA.3.2. It's another offshoot of the Omicron family of COVID-19 viruses, which first appeared in 2021 gavi.org. This means it's related to previous strains we've encountered, like JN.1.

What Makes it Different?

Scientists have noted that Cicada carries a significant number of new mutations around 70 to 75 in its spike protein, which is the part of the virus our immune system recognizes time.com. While many mutations might sound alarming, viruses constantly change. The key question is whether these changes make it more dangerous or better at evading our immunity.

Early evidence suggests that while it is highly mutated, it's not currently causing widespread severe illness compared to other Omicron strains gavi.org. However, its ability to spread effectively could still lead to an increase in overall infections.

Where is it Spreading?

The Cicada variant was first detected in South Africa in late 2024 and began spreading more widely in late 2025 idmadvda.org. It has now been identified in over 23 countries, including the U.S., where it's been found in wastewater samples across 25 states idmadvda.org. In recent months, it has been responsible for about 30% of COVID-19 infections in Europe time.com.

When Did it Emerge?

It re-emerged onto the scene after its initial detection in South Africa in late 2024. Its current spread gained momentum in late 2025 and early 2026, much like a cicada completing its cycle time.com.

Why Should We Pay Attention?

While the Cicada variant isn't necessarily more "deadly," its ability to sidestep some existing immunity means it can lead to more infections overall. This is important because even if individual cases are not severe, a large number of infections can still strain healthcare systems and disrupt daily life. The virus is continually evolving, and our public health responses need to keep pace hiprac.com.

The Importance of Year-Round Immunity Support

This new variant is a good reminder that staying on top of our health is a year-round commitment. Here's why maintaining your immunity is crucial:

• Ongoing Viral Evolution: As we’ve seen with Cicada, the COVID-19 virus continues to mutate. Boosting your immunity helps your body recognize and fight off new strains, even if the protection isn't 100% against infection.
• Reduced Severity: Even if you contract the virus, a strong immune system, prior plays a role on how long it hangs around or if you are bed-ridden or even worse hospitalize with long-term complications.
• Overall Well-being: Beyond COVID-19, supporting your immune system through healthy habits like balanced nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management helps protect you from a wide range of illnesses and keeps you performing at your best. Today, more than ever Holistic Health is indeed Your Wealth. Invest in you today.  

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References

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. (n.d.). 8 things you need to know about BA.3.2 “Cicada” variant of COVID-19. 

HIPRAC. (n.d.). New “Cicada” COVID variant: What you need to know. 

IDMADVDA. (n.d.). COVID-19 “Cicada” variant: What you need to know—Symptoms, precautions, and expert insights. 

TIME. (n.d.). The new COVID variant “Cicada”: What to know.