“COVID-19 continues to evolve, and new variants remain part of that cycle. The latest variant gaining attention is officially known as SARS-CoV-2 Variant BA.3.2, or more commonly called the ‘Cicada’ variant. Like other recent subvariants, such as Nimbus and Stratus, BA.3.2 is part of the ongoing evolution of the virus, with mutations that may influence how easily it spreads and how the immune system responds. As of early February 2026, ‘BA.3.2 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,’ according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”

“‘Monitoring the spread of BA.3.2 provides valuable information about the potential for this new SARS-CoV-2 lineage to evade immunity from a previous infection or vaccination,’ the CDC says.”

“Meaning, the agency is watching how BA.3.2 spreads to learn if it can infect people who already have some protection from COVID vaccines or past illness. As COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses continue to circulate, understanding the Cicada variant – its symptoms, how it spreads and how to protect yourself – can help you make informed decisions for your health,” says a post from Stony Brook University School of Medicine’s Health Hub hyping the new COVID variant.

Don’t say the name too loud around your cats though. It’ll get them awfully hungry. They’ll be pawing at you wondering if you’ve got any cicadas in your pockets, under your shirt, even in your hair.