The variant is part of the evolving COVID-19 virus family and traces back to the Omicron lineage, which continues to produce new subvariants over time.

What is the BA.3.2 'Cicada' Variant?

The BA.3.2 variant is a sublineage of Omicron, emerging from an earlier BA.3 strain that had largely faded after 2022. Its sudden reappearance with a large number of mutations is what has caught global attention.

Experts say the nickname "Cicada" reflects how the variant may have evolved quietly before resurfacing.

According to the World Health Organization, BA.3.2 has been classified as a "variant under monitoring", meaning it is being tracked but is not currently considered a major global threat.

Why scientists are watching this variant closely

The BA.3.2 variant stands out due to its high number of mutations, especially in the spike protein:

• Over 50 mutations compared to its immediate ancestor
• More than 70 mutations compared to the original Wuhan strain

This has raised concerns about:

• Possible immune escape
• Potential increase in transmissibility
• Changes in how the virus behaves

Health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are closely monitoring its spread through global surveillance systems.

There are also early signs of its presence in wastewater surveillance data, indicating gradual spread in some regions. However, no large-scale outbreaks have been reported so far.

Symptoms of the BA.3.2 variant

So far, symptoms linked to the BA.3.2 variant appear similar to other Omicron subvariants and are generally mild, especially in vaccinated individuals.

Common symptoms include:

• Cough
• Fatigue
• Runny nose or congestion
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Mild fever
• Body aches

In some cases, people may also experience:

• Loss of taste or smell
• Night sweats
• Skin rashes

Is the new variant more dangerous?

Current global data suggests that BA.3.2 does not cause more severe illness compared to earlier Omicron variants.

There is:

• No significant rise in hospitalisations
• No increase in death rates
• Symptoms remain similar to mild respiratory infections

Experts also believe that existing Covid vaccines continue to offer protection against severe disease, even if protection against infection may vary.

At present, there is no evidence of widespread BA.3.2 cases in India, but health experts say continued monitoring is essential due to global travel and connectivity.

Authorities advise the public to:

• Stay updated on booster vaccinations
• Follow basic precautions in crowded or high-risk areas
• Get tested if symptoms appear
• Protect vulnerable groups like the elderly.