The quietude around COVID-19 reporting is being disrupted. While overall cases remain low according to wastewater surveillance, a variant nicknamed “cicada” – officially BA.3.2 – is gaining traction and prompting renewed attention from infectious disease specialists. This isn’t a signal for immediate panic, but a crucial reminder that SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, and vigilance remains … Read more
Over 22 countries, including the United States, have now confirmed cases of the BA.3.2 COVID-19 variant, nicknamed ‘Cicada’ due to its potential for rapid, cyclical outbreaks. While Thailand has yet to detect the strain domestically, the increasing global prevalence signals a critical juncture in our ongoing battle against COVID-19. This isn’t simply about another variant; … Read more
The quiet emergence of a new COVID-19 variant, dubbed “Cicada” (BA.3.2), is a stark reminder that the pandemic is far from over. While current infection rates remain significantly lower than in previous years, the variant’s unusual mutation profile and ability to evade existing immunity warrant close attention. This isn’t simply another Omicron subvariant; it represents … Read more