“Cicada” (BA.3.2), first identified in South Africa in 2024, has spread globally and shows significant variation from earlier strains, raising concerns about immune evasion. However, doctors report it is not more deadly so far.
Symptoms remain similar—cough, fever, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell—and tests still detect it. Vaccines may not prevent all infections but continue to reduce severe illness and death.
Experts advise staying cautious, not fearful: maintain hygiene, rest when sick, mask if needed, and keep vaccinations up to date.