The World Health Organization is monitoring the spread of a highly mutated new coronavirus variant, BA.3.2 COVID-19 variant, nicknamed “Cicada.” So far, it has been detected in 23 countries, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported cases in 25 U.S. states—from samples taken from travelers, clinical patients, and wastewater.

The variant earned its nickname because, after its initial detection, it appeared to remain “dormant” in some regions for a long time—similar to cicadas, which can stay underground for years.

One of the key features of “Cicada” is that it appears to infect children more frequently than adults. Data analysis from cases in New York City showed that children were more likely to test positive for BA.3.2. According to Ravindra Gupta of the Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology, this may be due to a less developed immune system. Children have been exposed to fewer viruses and COVID infections, meaning their immune defenses against new variants are weaker. Adults, by contrast, have built stronger immunity over time.

Some researchers also suggest that the variant’s heavily mutated spike protein may play a role. Gupta and his team are currently studying samples from children to better understand this effect.

Experts advise parents of children with chronic lung or heart conditions, or weakened immune systems, to seek medical care promptly if needed. However, in most healthy children, the illness is expected to resolve on its own.

Despite growing attention, experts stress there is no reason for panic. The World Health Organization has classified the variant as “under monitoring” and reported as early as December that there is no evidence of increased severe cases, hospitalizations, or deaths linked to “Cicada.” Symptoms remain typical of COVID-19—including fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, headaches, and shortness of breath—and do not differ from other variants.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes BA.3.2 as “highly divergent,” meaning it differs significantly from the original Omicron variant. This makes it harder for the immune system to recognize and allows it to partially evade existing immunity. However, current vaccines still provide protection, and vaccinated individuals are more likely to experience mild illness.

Updated vaccines specifically targeting “Cicada” would only be developed if there is a sharp rise in infections or severe cases.

High-risk groups remain people over 65, those with chronic conditions, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Epidemiologist Paul Hunter of the University of East Anglia notes that the emergence of new variants is normal, and SARS-CoV-2 is unlikely to disappear. While new strains may trigger waves of infection, the number of severe cases and deaths is expected to continue declining. According to him, COVID-19 is gradually becoming one of the common seasonal respiratory infections.