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A new COVID-19 variant, BA.3.2, informally called
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A new COVID-19 variant, BA.3.2, informally called “Cicada,” is quickly gaining attention. Due to the number of mutations and a slow, but possible, global spread, the variant is being closely monitored by health officials. So is this variant serious enough where we, the public, need to be concerned? The short answer is no, but there are still concerning factors.
Some variants of the COVID-19 virus are often predicted to spread at a more rapid rate than others. However, BA.3.2, or Cicada, as it is nicknamed, is more of a slow and surprising variant. Cicada is comparable to the cicada insect which burrows underground in the earth and later emerges, and for this reason it has received the name.
What gives BA.3.2 the most cause for concern is the sheer number of mutations it has, even more concerning is that the mutations are in the spike protein. The spike protein mutations are the cause of greater transmissibility and the ability to escape the immune system to at least some degree. While this variant is still being closely monitored, at this time, it is not considered to be a major threat.
The symptoms that are associated with the Cicada variant are what is considered to be “typical covid symptoms.” These include fever, cough, fatigue, headache, and pain in muscles. However, a noticibly more severe symptom is a sore throat, which has actually been more common with this variant of the virus.
From the data that is currently available, the BA.3.2 variant is not causing more severe illnesses than the variants of COVID-19 that are more previously than this variant. Most instances in Covid remain in the range of mild to moderate, and this variant is no different. However, there are still other variables that are being studied upon the impact of this variant and it possesses many possible long-term factors.
Vaccines continue to be extremely necessary when it comes to protecting those against serious illnesses and hospitalization, and though the Covid virus has mutated and caused “breakthrough” infections of those that are vaccinated, the end result is that vaccination is still the most essential line of defense to keep infections and serious outcomes at a minimum.
While the variant is spreading, it has not yet become the most prominent strain. There is not an immediate reason to panic, though awareness and precaution are important as this develops.
Take for example the variant BA.3.2 “Cicada”. The variant demonstrates how COVID-19 continues to evolve. Although there are numerous mutations, it has not exhibited an uptick in severity. The primary aim is to track the spread and further impacts of the variant.
Ensuring vaccination status is up to date, using sanitation measures in crowded areas, monitoring symptoms, and staying informed are all essential. Preparedness is the best approach, not panic.
