The COVID variant BA.3.2, known as Cicada, is causing rising cases in the U.S. and globally, raising alarms among health officials. The variant, first detected in a traveler to the United States in June 2025, has since spread rapidly, with the first U.S. case diagnosed in January 2026.

As of February 11, 2026, BA.3.2 has been reported in at least 25 states across the U.S. and is responsible for approximately 30% of COVID-19 sequences in Germany and some Northern European countries. The World Health Organization classified BA.3.2 as a ‘variant under monitoring’ in December 2025, highlighting its potential impact.

BA.3.2 is characterized by a highly mutated spike protein, with 70-75 mutations identified. This raises concerns about its ability to evade immunity from previous infections or vaccinations. According to the CDC, “Monitoring the spread of BA.3.2 provides valuable information about the potential for this new SARS-CoV-2 lineage to evade immunity from a previous infection or vaccination.”

In the U.S., BA.3.2 has been detected in 3.7% of wastewater samples as of March 14, 2026, indicating its prevalence in communities. The variant has been reported in at least 23 countries, underscoring its global reach.

Despite the alarming statistics, experts like Dr. Andrew Pekosz emphasize that while BA.3.2 looks concerning on paper, it has not yet significantly impacted disease severity in most regions. However, Dr. Robert H. Hopkins, Jr. warns that low vaccination rates and insufficient public health measures leave the population vulnerable.

Current COVID vaccines are expected to continue providing protection against severe disease from BA.3.2, but the effectiveness of these vaccines against the variant is still being studied. As the situation evolves, health officials urge continued vigilance and vaccination efforts.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential for BA.3.2 to cause a surge in cases in the U.S. Further developments are anticipated as researchers and health authorities monitor the variant closely.

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Toronto has confirmed two travel-related cases of a new mpox variant, Clade Ib, which is raising health concerns in the region. This variant is linked to outbreaks in Central and Eastern Africa and is considered more severe than the previously reported Clade 2b.

As of the end of 2025, a total of 155 mpox cases had been confirmed in Toronto, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by this virus. Symptoms of mpox include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and rash, which can significantly impact those infected.

Toronto Public Health has stated that treatment guidance for mpox remains unchanged despite the emergence of this new variant. The mpox vaccine is available for eligible residents through clinics and community partners, and it is free, accessible with or without a health card.

Individuals who have received two doses of the mpox vaccine do not require additional vaccinations, providing some reassurance to those who have already been vaccinated. The virus can be transmitted through close, intimate, or sexual contact with an infected person, emphasizing the importance of awareness and preventive measures.

Current risk appears contained, but headlines can shift sentiment fast, indicating that public vigilance remains crucial. Health officials are monitoring the situation closely to ensure that any potential spread is addressed promptly.

While the situation is being managed, the emergence of Clade Ib raises questions about the future trajectory of mpox cases in Toronto and beyond. Further developments are expected as health authorities continue to assess the impact of this new variant.

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