As detections increased in late 2025, the “Cicada” variant, officially known as BA.3.2 and recently reported on in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, has now appeared in more than 20 countries. While it hasn’t triggered widespread alarm, its unusual genetic profile — particularly mutations in its spike protein — is raising important questions about how well existing immunity holds up.

Unlike earlier waves, where one variant rapidly dominated, BA.3.2 is spreading more gradually. But its ability to partially evade immune defenses means it could still contribute to seasonal upticks in infections, especially in populations with prior exposure or vaccination.