NEW HEAVILY MUTATED COVID VARIANT BA.3.2 SPREADS IN US, RAISING IMMUNITY CONCERNS. (PHOTO).

 New heavily mutated COVID variant BA.3.2 spreads in US, raising immunity concerns

A new COVID-19 variant, BA.3.2, also called “Cicada,” is spreading in the United States and several other countries. Experts say the variant carries numerous mutations in its spike protein that may make it harder for the immune system to recognize, potentially reducing protection from prior infection or vaccination. First detected in South Africa in November 2024, BA.3.2 has since appeared in at least 25 U.S. states and 23 countries worldwide, though cases remain relatively low compared with dominant strains like XFG and NB.1.8.1. Public health officials are monitoring it closely, classifying it as a “variant under monitoring.”

Despite its many mutations, researchers say BA.3.2 does not appear to cause more severe illness than previous COVID variants. Symptoms are similar to other circulating strains, including cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, congestion, and loss of taste or smell. Current vaccines remain effective at preventing severe disease, though lab studies suggest some reduction in protection against infection. Experts recommend continued vigilance, including testing when symptomatic, masking in high-risk indoor settings, and staying up to date with vaccinations or boosters, particularly for adults over 65 and individuals with weakened immune systems.