A new COVID variant is now spreading and experts are starting to pay attention. It has been given a strange nickname: “Cicada.” There’s a reason why.

The new strain, called BA.3.2, is attracting closer attention. One reason is the many changes in the variant’s spike protein, which make it different from other versions now spreading.

“Perhaps more concerning is the variant’s slew of genetic changes in its spike protein, which set it apart from other variants circulating,” said Andrew Pekosz, Ph.D., a virologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, in an interview with TODAY.

The virus that causes COVID-19 keeps changing as it spreads. This is normal and leads to the emergence of new variants over time. Most variants today are very similar to each other, with only minor differences. But according to experts, BA.3.2 is not like the others — it clearly stands out.

Cicada – a new Covid strain

Scientists say it was first found in South Africa in 2024, but it stayed quiet for a long time. Then suddenly, it came back.

Now, it has been found in more than 20 countries worldwide. Per the CDC, it’s circulating in at least 25 U.S. states.

The name comes from the insect cicada. Cicadas can stay underground for years before suddenly appearing again. Experts say this virus is similar. Scientists say this variant has many mutations — around 70 to 75 changes in the spike protein. That itself could make it easier to spread, and it could make the strain better at avoiding immunity.

However, there is also some good news. Experts believe current COVID vaccines still protect against serious illness. So even if the virus spreads, it may not be more dangerous.

As of now, the BA. 3.2 Strain is still a small part of total COVID cases. But in some parts of Europe, it has already made up a large share of infections. However, it’s still too early to say whether the “cicada” will become the next dominant strain.