Camilla Jessen
As the strain spreads globally, reports of intense symptoms are circulating online.
A newly emerging Covid variant is drawing attention from people who say they have experienced it firsthand.
The variant, known as BA.3.2 or “Cicada,” has been identified in more than 20 countries and is now present in at least 25 US states, according to health authorities. First detected in South Africa in 2024, it remained under the radar before reappearing more widely.
Experts say the strain stands out due to a high number of mutations, particularly in its spike protein.
Highly mutated variant
Virologist Andrew Pekosz told TODAY: “Perhaps more concerning is the variant’s slew of genetic changes in its spike protein, which set it apart from other variants circulating,”
Scientists estimate the variant carries around 70 to 75 mutations, which may make it more transmissible and harder for the immune system to recognise.
Kyle B. Enfield, speaking to The Conversation, said these changes could reduce how quickly the body responds to infection.
Symptoms reported
Despite its differences, the symptoms appear broadly similar to other Covid strains.
Common signs include cough, fever, chills, sore throat, congestion, fatigue and shortness of breath. Some patients also report headaches, loss of smell or taste, and gastrointestinal issues.
Experts stress there is currently no clear evidence that the variant causes more severe disease than previous strains.
However, individuals on social media have described difficult experiences with the illness.
One Reddit user wrote: “Guys really be careful. I had the worst fever for 2 days it was 104 fever I couldn’t get out of bed. It is extremely contagious!”
Another said: “I’m just now getting over it. Felt like I was dying for three weeks. It sucked.”
A third added that symptoms lasted around a week but included lingering effects: “Brain fog lingered the longest but slightly better by day 7-8.”
Expert advice
Health specialists continue to emphasise caution, particularly as the variant spreads.
“If you feel unwell, stay home – not just to take care of yourself, but to prevent spreading disease,” Enfield said.
Vaccines are still expected to protect against severe illness, even if the variant partially evades immune responses.
Sources: CDC, The Conversation, TODAY, social media reports, Tyla.
