Cicada: A New Variant of Covid-19. Is There a Reason to Worry?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has placed a new variant of the coronavirus, known as BA.3.2, under special surveillance. This variant is more commonly referred to as "Cicada". Currently, it has been officially confirmed in 23 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Mozambique. Experts have classified it as a "variant of interest," which means it is undergoing detailed study to assess potential health risks for the public.

According to scientists, the new strain has multiple mutations; however, there is currently no confirmed data indicating that it is more dangerous than previously known variants. Nevertheless, experts point out a notable feature: children are becoming infected with this strain more frequently than adults. The name "Cicada" is attributed to the behavior of the virus; after its discovery, it remained in a "dormant" state for some time, resembling the insect of the same name, which can spend long periods underground.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the new variant has already been reported in 25 states across the country. Infections have been identified both through clinical samples and traveler screenings, as well as during sewage monitoring.

Despite its widespread geographical presence, experts urge maintaining vigilance but avoiding panic, as the full impact of the virus is still under scientific research.