Cicada COVID Variant BA. 3.2: Are Children More Prone? Check Symptoms, Precautions

Scientists have discovered a new COVID-19 strain, nicknamed as Cicada variant or BA.3.2. The new variant has been discovered in 23 countries so far. According to a report published in cdc.gov, detection of Cicada started rising in September 2025. In the United States only, the new virus was detected in nasal swabs from four travelers, three airplane wastewater samples, clinical samples from five patients, and 132 wastewater samples from 25 US states. The latest COVID variant can be 5 times more infectious in children compared to previous strains. ¹

However, according to World Health Organisation, “available evidence suggests that BA.3.2. poses low additional public health risks compared with other circulating Omicron descendent lineages.” ²

Dr Tanya Altman, pediatrician and founder of @calabasaspeds said, “Here is what parents need to know. This variant called BA.3.2. has been detected in multiple states and countries. But, it still is a very small percentage of cases right now. So why the name Cicada? Like cicadas, this variant stayed under the radar for a long time and then reemerged more noticeably. Even though this variant has more mutations than some previous strains and so may be able to get around past immunity. So far the symptoms look very similar to what we have already been seeing. Things like cough, fever, fatigue, and congestion. And, in fact in the last few kids in my office with COVID had very mild symptoms.” ³

“And, most importantly, early data is very reassuring. We are not seeing more severe illness, hospitalisations, or deaths with this variant. So at this point it is not behaving differently in terms of how sick people are getting. It is just another version of COVID that we are continuing to monitor. Bottom line for families if your child gets sick treat it like any other viral illness. Rest, fluids, supportive care, and call your pediatrician if symptoms are concerning,” added Dr Tanya.

Why Children Are More Vulnerable To New COVID variant?

The new variant could pose risk to children as it is known to escape the developed antibodies from the previously administered vaccines. It is therefore imperative to get a booster and maintain the necessary health advisory practices like frequent hand washing, maintaining hygiene, and opting for masks in public places. The other factors that make children 5 times more vulnerable to Cicada is due to the higher transmissibility of the new variant, weaker prior immune health, increased exposure to public places, and schools. Also, immune system of children are not fully developed. Schools, group activities, or playgrounds may become hotspots in case preventive measures are not taken.  

Symptoms of BA. 3.2 In Children

The symptoms of the latest COVID variant among children remain more or less similar to the previous strains. However, the symptoms my surface more often or intensely. Common symptoms are given below:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Sore Throat

• Runny Nose

• Headache

• Bodyache

• Stomach issues such as diarrhea or nausea

• Loss of taste or smell 

Quicks Tips To Protect Children

Parents can heave a sigh of relief as precautions will remain highly effective. Below are some safety tips that children must follow or parents must ensure:

• Regular hand wash with soap

• Always keep the mask on at crowded or public places

• Ensure effective ventilation at classrooms and houses

• Do not send children to school or public place if they displace the aforementioned symptoms

• Follow a healthy vitamin-C rich diet to boost immune health

According to Medanta, “What feels like a common sore throat or mild fatigue might not always be that simple. A new COVID subvariant, “Cicada,” is currently being monitored for how easily it spreads and how it interacts with existing immunity. While symptoms may appear mild, they’re easy to overlook — and that’s where the risk lies. Staying aware of the signs and continuing to follow basic precautions can help limit transmission and protect those who may be more vulnerable. If symptoms persist, don’t ignore them. Timely testing and care still matter.” ⁴

Vaccination

Vaccination has emerged as one of the most useful ways to protect against the new variant. However, the eligibility may differ region wise and age wise. Meanwhile, parents should opt for COVID vaccination for children, if available.  It is worth noting that BA. 3.2 can still escape antibodies produced by vaccination or earlier infection, vaccine can still offer protection against severe illness.  

According to a report featured in Max Healthcare, “Current vaccines remain highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalisation, and death from BA.3.2. Bivalent and updated COVID boosters improve protection against this variant. Vaccines reduce viral load and transmission risk. Antiviral treatments (e.g., Paxlovid) remain effective for high-risk patients.” ⁵

FAQs

References

1. CDC|Early Detection and Surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2 Variant BA.3.2 — Worldwide, November 2024–February 2026

2. WHO|WHO TAG-VE Risk Evaluation for SARS-CoV-2 Variant Under Monitoring: BA.3.2

3. Dr Tanya Altman, pediatrician and founder of @calabasaspeds via Instagram|CICADA

4. Medanta|COVID subvariant Cicada

5. Max Healthcare|COVID-19 Cicada Variant (BA.3.2): Symptoms, Transmission, Vaccines, and Prevention

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.