New ‘Cicada’ COVID variant detected in 25 U.S. states

TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - A new COVID variant is spreading across the U.S. The ‘Cicada’ strain has now been detected in 25 states, including Texas. The new variant, officially known as “BA.3.2,” is part of the Omicron family. It’s nicknamed the ‘cicada’ variant because it has largely remained underground since it was first identified back in 2024, up until June of last year.

The strain has now mutated in a way that makes it harder for your body to fight off, meaning infections can linger for longer and seems to mostly infect children. The current mutation also makes existing vaccines less effective; medical officials maintain that vaccination is still the best defense. Health experts are keeping tabs on how the virus spreads in the coming weeks as we brace for a peak.

The symptoms of this variant are similar to previous strains, closely resembling a mix between the flu and a common cold. Signs of infection include a sore throat or headaches, a cough, body aches, a fever, and the occasional loss of taste or smell.

If you get sick, you’re advised to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. You’ll also want to contact your doctor and self-isolate, and inform anyone you were in close-contact with during the 48-hours before your symptoms started. You can use over-the-counter medicines to help manage your symptoms.