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Cicada Variant Spreads in 25 States, Sparks Summer Surge Warnings

3/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The COVID-19 variant BA.3.2, called Cicada, is spreading in 25 U.S. states after being identified in South Africa in 2024.
Experts say its mutations may help it evade vaccine- and infection-induced immunity.
The CDC notes spike protein changes bypass some immune defenses.
Symptoms include cough, sore throat, congestion, fever, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues.
It accounts for under 1% of cases, but officials warn it could drive a summer surge.

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Story summary

The COVID-19 variant BA.3.2, called Cicada, is spreading in 25 U.S. states after being identified in South Africa in 2024.
Experts say its mutations may help it evade vaccine- and infection-induced immunity.
The CDC notes spike protein changes bypass some immune defenses.
Symptoms include cough, sore throat, congestion, fever, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues.
It accounts for under 1% of cases, but officials warn it could drive a summer surge.