Circada Variant Spreading: Is Your Vaccine Still Effective?

A novel COVID-19 variant, identified as BA.3.2 and colloquially termed Circada, is experiencing a surge across the United States, with cases identified in 25 states. This variant has also been detected in significant proportions in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, accounting for approximately 30% of cases in these nations.

Despite its spread, the Circada variant has not yet caused a noticeable increase in overall COVID-19 infection rates. Current scientific assessments indicate no signs that it poses a greater danger than other existing variants.

Concerns have been raised by health professionals regarding the potential for this variant to evade immunity provided by current vaccines due to its distinct mutations. Professor Brandon Dionne noted that the variant is different enough from previous strains like JN.1 that vaccines might be less effective at priming the immune system against it.

However, even with potential reduced vaccine efficacy, a general level of protection is still anticipated from existing immunity. The symptoms associated with the Circada variant appear consistent with other recent Omicron subvariants, including sore throat, cough, fatigue, and fever, with some individuals also reporting gastrointestinal issues.