New COVID-19 Variant 'Cicada' (BA.3.2) Detected Across 25 US States

Key Points

• BA.3.2 'Cicada' variant detected in 25 U.S. states and 22 other countries
• Variant has extremely high number of mutations, particularly in spike protein
• Not a descendant of JN.1 lineage which current vaccines target
• CDC emphasizes need for ongoing genomic surveillance

Full Details

A new COVID-19 variant designated BA.3.2, nicknamed 'Cicada', has emerged and been detected in half of the United States and 22 additional countries, according to a recently published CDC report. This variant carries an extremely high number of mutations, particularly in its spike protein, which allows it to efficiently evade antibodies. The CDC report authors noted that the strain 'efficiently evades antibodies, likely because of spike protein mutations, highlighting the need for ongoing genomic surveillance and observational evaluations of vaccine and antiviral effectiveness.' Unlike other variants, BA.3.2 is not considered a descendant of the JN.1 lineage, which current COVID vaccines target. The WHO stated at the end of last year that existing vaccines and antivirals are expected to continue providing protection against severe disease, though the high mutation count raises concerns about reduced vaccine efficacy.