Despite the decline in the severity of the Corona pandemic globally, the virus continues to mutate, with the emergence of strains, the most recent of which is the BA.3.2 mutant known as “Cicada,” which has returned to the forefront again after its first appearance in 2024.
According to a report published by TIME magazine, the mutant began recording infections in the United States, after a period of latency similar to the life cycle of the cicada insect, which disappears for years before reappearing massively.
Why is it called “Cicada”?
The name is due to the intermittent nature of its spread, as it first appeared in South Africa in late 2024, then declined before other strains before spreading again about a year later, in a pattern resembling the insect of the same name.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cicadas carry between 70 and 75 genetic mutations in the spike protein, the part that the immune system recognizes.
Despite this large number of mutations, the mutant remains within the “Omicron” family, which means it retains some genetic features in common with previous strains.
How common is the new Cicada mutant?
Cicada has been monitored in more than twenty American states, and estimates indicate that it was responsible for about 30% of Corona infections in Europe recently, although data remains limited due to the decline in monitoring systems.
Data suggest that current vaccines, targeting “omicron” strains such as JN.1, still provide partial protection against the new variant, but may be less effective compared to previous strains.
Dr. William Schaffner said vaccines do not completely prevent infection, but they significantly reduce the risk of severe cases and hospitalization.
What are the symptoms of mutant cicada?
The symptoms of “Cicada” do not differ from previous Corona variants, and include:
- sore throat
- Fever or chills
- Headache
- Cough
- Body pain
- Runny nose
Experts confirm that the symptoms may be mixed with influenza, which makes testing the most accurate method of diagnosis.
The data is still incomplete, but experts believe that current Corona tests will still be able to detect the mutant, due to their reliance on parts that are less susceptible to mutation in the virus.
Ways to prevent the “Cicada” mutant
Although it has not yet been proven to be more dangerous, doctors advise taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection, including:
- Commitment to vaccination and booster doses, especially for the most vulnerable groups
- Conduct a Corona test when respiratory symptoms appear
- Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated places
- Wear a mask in high-risk environments
- Stay home when feeling sick
Does Cicada pose a greater danger than Corona?
So far, there is no conclusive evidence that Cicada causes more severe disease than previous variants, but its ability to mutate puts it under constant surveillance.
Experts confirm that the decisive factor will remain the extent of its spread and its ability to overcome immunity, which the data will reveal during the coming period.
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