New “Cicada” COVID Variant Detected in Illinois

New COVID Variant “Cicada” Detected in Illinois and Across the U.S.

There’s a new COVID variant sweeping through the US, and its nickname has got us thinking.

Especially when you consider what these insects are known for.

What Is the BA.3.2 “Cicada” COVID Variant?

The variant, BA.3.2, is called Cicada, and it’s now been found in 25 states, including Illinois.

The name comes from its dormancy and re-emergence, quite like cicadas.

How the Cicada Variant Is Being Detected

The new COVID variant has been detected in wastewater surveillance and in various patient samples.

READ MORE: Do You Need Another COVID Booster? Here’s What Illinois Officials Say

Is the Cicada COVID Variant More Dangerous?

Before you get too panicked, it’s only a small percentage of total cases, and there's no evidence that this Cicada strain of the virus causes more severe illness.

READ MORE: COVID or Flu? How to Tell the Difference This Season

Why Experts Are Monitoring New COVID Mutations

However, the concern is that with every mutation of the virus, it could evade current vaccines.

A “Sneakier” Version of COVID?

It’s not that Cicada is more dangerous, but maybe a bit sneakier. Like a new kind of COVID that knows how to fly under the radar.