A new COVID-19 variant, BA.3.2, has been quietly spreading in the U.S. since late 2024. It’s gaining traction now, prompting concern among many, especially those with underlying health issues.
As a pulmonary and critical care doctor, I often hear from patients anxious about how serious these new variants could be, particularly those facing chronic lung disease and ongoing effects from long COVID.
Currently, there’s no evidence suggesting BA.3.2, or “Cicada” as it’s called, is more dangerous than the variants from 2025-26. However, due to its significant genetic differences—between 70 to 75 changes in the spike protein—it may mean that the existing COVID-19 vaccines might not be as effective.
Origin of the BA.3.2 Variant
This variant traces back to the omicron strain that emerged in late 2021.
When looking at it compared to the usual strains of SARS-CoV-2, BA.3.2 carries a significant number of genetic modifications in its spike protein, which is crucial for the virus entering human cells. It’s also the target for vaccines designed to help immune recognition of the virus.
Initially identified in Africa in November 2024, this variant began spreading globally in 2025, reaching 23 countries by February 2026.
The first reported case in the U.S. was from a traveler in June 2025. Now, BA.3.2 has been found in patients and wastewater in 29 states across the country.
Speaking of wastewater, it’s a key early warning sign for identifying virus shifts, though fewer states have been sending data to the CDC recently.
Unique Features of BA.3.2
Viruses evolve over time, and COVID-19 is particularly fast at doing this. Each time it replicates, mutations can occur. Most of these mutations fizzle out, but now and then, a variant emerges that can spread more effectively.
This evolution can make it more challenging for our immune systems to recognize the virus quickly.
It’s like seeing old friends at a high school reunion. You might recognize them, but with changes over time—weight gain, hairstyle shifts—it may take a moment longer because you haven’t seen them in ages. Conversely, if you’ve kept in touch regularly over those years, recognition is instant.
For viruses, this delayed recognition affects how well vaccines perform too. They train our immune systems based on common variants circulating when the vaccines were created.
At the moment, COVID-19 vaccines are aimed at strains from the JN.1 lineage, which have been the prevalent strains since January 2024. BA.3.2 is quite different, almost like a stranger to most in the U.S., meaning the vaccine may be less effective and could allow this variant to bypass immune detection.
This doesn’t mean vaccination is unimportant. Evidence consistently shows vaccines lower the chances of severe illness or death from COVID-19. Yet, if there’s a mismatch between the vaccine and the variant, it may take longer for the immune system to respond.
Potential Risks of BA.3.2
Because this variant might evade immune detection more easily, it could lead to broader infections, which in turn may result in a rise in COVID-19 cases.
Even so, there’s no strong indication it causes more severe disease than previous strains circulating over past years.
Given the potential for vaccines to be less effective against BA.3.2, keeping up with protective measures is essential. This is especially true for individuals with chronic health issues who are at greater risk for serious complications from COVID-19.
While cases of long COVID have generally reduced as the virus has mutated, it still occurs in about 3% of infections.
How to Protect Yourself and Others
Here are a few straightforward steps to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission:
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First, wash your hands regularly—after using the restroom, before food preparation, and after contact with anyone sick. This can lower the chance of respiratory infections by 16% to 21%.
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If you’re feeling under the weather, stay home. I get it; missing work or school can feel daunting. But think about those around you who might be more vulnerable.
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Try to spend more time outdoors. It cuts down on exposure risk from crowded spaces.
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If you’re worried about severe illness related to your health concerns, consult a healthcare professional who can provide tailored advice.
