Understanding the BA.3.2 (Cicada) COVID-19 Variant
Health experts in Australia are closely monitoring a highly mutated version of the Omicron strain known as BA.3.2, or “Cicada.” This variant has spread rapidly across the United States and is now being watched closely as the country moves into winter. With its potential to become a common strain, it’s essential to understand what this variant is, how it affects people, and what steps can be taken to stay safe.
What is the BA.3.2 (Cicada) Variant?
The BA.3.2 variant, also referred to as Cicada, is a heavily mutated subvariant of the Omicron strain. It was first detected in South Africa in November 2024, but cases have since surged across several continents. The World Health Organisation (WHO) classified it as a variant “under monitoring” on December 5, 2025.
According to the U.S. Centre for Disease Control (CDC), detections of BA.3.2 began to increase in September 2025 and peaked in December across the U.S. The strain has also spread to other parts of the northern hemisphere, making up nearly one-third of COVID cases in countries like Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands in late 2025. As of February 11, 2026, BA.3.2 had been detected in at least 23 countries, including those in Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania.
Symptoms of the Cicada Variant
The symptoms of the BA.3.2 variant are largely similar to those of other COVID-19 strains. They include:
- Razor blade-like sore throat
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Loss of sense of smell and/or taste
- Body aches
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
While these symptoms are not unique to the Cicada variant, they are consistent with other forms of the virus.
Why is it Called ‘Cicada’?
The name “Cicada” was given by American evolutionary biology professor T. Ryan Gregory, according to Today.com. He chose the name after the insect, which remains dormant underground for several years before emerging. Similarly, BA.3.2 has been circulating since late 2024, but its case numbers have only recently spiked, particularly during the icy winter period in the U.S.
Has the Cicada Variant Reached Australia?
Although the Cicada variant has been present in Australia for some time, it hasn’t become the dominant strain. Professor Catherine Bennett, chair of epidemiology at Deakin University, noted that while the variant did take off, it didn’t fully dominate. She explained that it may become more prevalent in Australia’s winter wave in the coming months, but it’s not new, and the population isn’t as immunologically naive to it as before.
Bennett recommends high-risk groups to consider a booster dose in the coming month. “Being vaccinated before the wave starts gives you a couple of weeks to build your immunity,” she said.
How is BA.3.2 Different from Other Variants?
BA.3.2 is a heavily mutated version of the Omicron strain, with additional spike protein mutations that make it distinct from other subvariants. However, it doesn’t necessarily present differently to other variants, according to Bennett. “It just means it looks a bit different to our immune system, so we don’t act as efficiently to fight it off.”
Do Current Vaccines Protect Against BA.3.2?
The 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccines offer broad protection against the virus, including the BA.3.2 variant. While they don’t specifically target all dominant variants, they provide some cross-protection. Recent lab studies suggest that the Cicada variant can evade some antibodies from the vaccine, increasing the chance of infection even for vaccinated individuals.
Bennett noted that people who haven’t been exposed to the BA.3.2 variant may face a higher risk of infection. “If you’re in an over-65 group and haven’t come into contact with the variant, it’s worth talking to your doctor about getting a booster dose now.”
Is the Cicada Variant More Dangerous?
So far, there is no evidence that BA.3.2 is more dangerous than previous variants. According to Bennett, it is associated with increased spread but does not appear to cause more severe illness. “It doesn’t look like it’s producing more severe illness,” she said.
A WHO report also indicated that BA.3.2 poses a “low additional public health risk” compared to other circulating Omicron variants.
What Should You Do if You Test Positive?
If you test positive for the Cicada variant, the health advice remains the same as for other COVID-19 strains. The Department of Health advises staying home until symptoms subside. Manage symptoms at home, and seek medical attention if they worsen. Wear a mask in shared areas, isolate if possible, and avoid high-risk settings like aged care facilities and hospitals.
High-risk individuals can consult their doctors for free oral antiviral treatments designed to reduce the risk of severe illness.
Final Thoughts
As the winter season approaches, it’s important to remain vigilant and follow public health guidelines. Staying informed and taking preventive measures such as vaccination and mask-wearing can help reduce the impact of the BA.3.2 variant.
