New 'Cicada' Strain Of COVID Spreads To CT: What To Know

A newly identified COVID-19 variant known as the "Cicada" strain has been detected in Connecticut, but current data suggest infection rates remain low.

The variant, designated BA.3.2, has been identified in the United States through a combination of traveler screening, clinical testing and wastewater surveillance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Health officials are monitoring the strain in part because of the number of mutations it carries, particularly in the spike protein. Those changes could allow the variant to partially evade existing immunity, though its real-world impact remains under study.

As of mid-February, the variant had been reported in more than 20 countries. In the U.S., it has been detected across a growing number of states, including Connecticut and much of the Northeast.

Despite its spread, BA.3.2 remains relatively uncommon nationwide.

In Connecticut, recent wastewater data suggest COVID-19 activity has remained stable.

Wastewater monitoring from WastewaterSCAN shows virus levels in Stamford have held steady in recent months, with only modest increases observed heading into March. Wastewater surveillance can detect changes in virus levels in a community early, even before increases appear in testing or hospital data.

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Symptoms associated with the variant appear similar to other recent strains and may include cough, sore throat, fever or chills, fatigue, congestion, headache, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

The CDC said current vaccines are still expected to provide protection against severe illness, even if some immune response may be reduced.

Health officials advise people who are sick or test positive for COVID to stay home and avoid contact with others.

Emergency warning signs include trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, difficulty waking or staying awake, and changes in skin, lip or nail color. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical care.