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Health experts assert that the BA.3.2 variant, colloquially named “Cicada,” does not present a heightened health risk compared to other COVID-19 variants.
Current statistics reveal that South Australia has recorded 1,932 cases. Meanwhile, Western Australia has noted 773 cases, the Australian Capital Territory has 225, Tasmania reports 263, and the Northern Territory accounts for 128 cases.
Although recent genome sequencing indicates a rise in the Cicada strain’s presence, professionals like Professor Patrick Reading from the World Health Organization advise there is no need for concern.
Professor Reading informed 9News, “The variant was initially identified in Western Australia in 2025, and it has since appeared in other states.”
He further clarified, “There is no evidence suggesting that this subvariant leads to increased severity, hospitalizations, or deaths.”
The strain is a descendant of Omicron and carries between 70 and 75 genetic changes in its spike protein compared to its predecessors, helping the virus get into cells and evade the immune system.
“It may be possible that the current vaccine we use may not do such a good job against this variant as it does against other circulating variants,” Reading said.
It’s important to note, it’s not the dominant circulating strain.
Experts say vaccination remains critically important, particularly for the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, as well as other measures.
“Masks, testing at home, staying at home if you’re unwell, hand hygiene and other ways to limit the spread,” Reading said.
It’s one of five Omicron subvariants being monitored by the World Health Organisation.
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