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New 'Cicada' COVID Variant Emerges Globally
27 Mar
Summary
- A new, highly mutated COVID-19 variant named 'Cicada' is spreading.
- The variant has been detected in at least 23 countries worldwide.
- Officials are monitoring potential vaccine effectiveness against Cicada.
A novel and highly mutated COVID-19 variant, designated 'Cicada,' is currently being monitored by health officials worldwide. This variant has already been detected in a minimum of 23 countries, with its presence also noted in wastewater samples from over two dozen states within the United States.
In Ohio, the 'Cicada' variant was first identified in December 2025. As of March 14-21, 2026, the Ohio Department of Health reported 136 COVID-related hospitalizations. However, the specific variant responsible for these hospitalizations has not been detailed.
Health authorities are closely observing the variant's trajectory, including its potential for wider dissemination and its susceptibility to current vaccines. While it remains too early to ascertain the variant's full impact, there is a watchful eye on the possibility of an increased surge in cases during the summer months.
