Cicada covid variant emerges: what you need to know

As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a new strain dubbed the 'Cicada' variant has made headlines. While the emergence of new variants can strike fear, experts reassure us that it's a natural part of the virus's evolution.

What is the cicada covid variant?

The Cicada strain, officially known as BA.3.2, is part of the Omicron family. It's named for its similarity to the cicada insect, which lies dormant for extended periods before emerging anew. This particular variant has gained attention due to its unique genetic makeup and increased mutation count.

Symptoms of the cicada covid variant

While the Cicada strain may exhibit some distinct characteristics, its symptoms are largely similar to those of other Omicron variants. People should remain vigilant for common COVID indicators like sore throat, cough, fatigue, fever, headaches, and congestion. Early reports suggest a particularly painful sore throat might be more pronounced with this variant, but overall, it's not presenting in a drastically new way.

What should i do if i think i have the new covid strain?

The advice remains straightforward: if you feel unwell, try to stay home and avoid close contact with others, especially those more vulnerable to severe illness. Staying up to date with vaccines remains one of the best ways to protect yourself, even as the virus evolves.