A newly emerging COVID-19 variant has been detected in South Carolina, raising concern as cases begin to increase nationwide.
The variant, known as BA.3.2 and nicknamed “Cicada,” is being tracked by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention after surveillance identified a steady rise in infections. Cases have now been confirmed in at least 25 states, including South Carolina.
Details
Health officials say the Cicada variant carries mutations that allow it to partially evade immunity from prior infection or vaccination.
Early data also suggests the strain is highly transmissible, increasing the risk of wider spread.
The World Health Organization has placed the variant on its “monitoring” list as detections grow globally, including in Japan, Kenya, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
Researchers are tracking the variant using nasal swabs, clinical testing, and wastewater surveillance.
Background
COVID-19 remains a serious public health concern. During the 2024–2025 respiratory season, the CDC reported:
- at least 390,000 hospitalizations
- more than 45,000 deaths nationwide
Officials warn that new variants like Cicada could drive those numbers higher.
Local Impact
The variant’s presence in South Carolina puts the Charlotte region on alert as officials monitor for changes in local case trends.
No new restrictions have been announced, but health experts say continued vigilance will be important as more data emerges.
