Cicada Variant: Global Rise and Expert Observations

A new COVID-19 variant, named Cicada, has been identified and is associated with a rise in cases globally.

Key Details Emerge

The Cicada variant has been detected in at least 23 countries, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). It was initially identified in South Africa in November 2024. The variant initially spread slowly, with the reason for its current increase in cases remaining undetermined by experts.

In the United States, Cicada has been detected in wastewater in over 20 states. However, it has not yet contributed to a large number of new COVID-19 cases across the country.

Expert Insights on Immunity

The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, undergoes constant mutation, leading to the frequent emergence of new variants.

Experts have stated that the Cicada variant may present challenges to immune systems, potentially exhibiting some immunity from existing vaccines or prior infections.

Despite this, the variant is not believed to induce reactions as severe as those caused by earlier strains of the virus.

International Monitoring Status

Health officials are closely monitoring the Cicada variant. In December 2025, the World Health Organization classified it as a "variant under monitoring."