What is the 'Cicada' Variant?
The COVID-19 variant BA.3.2, nicknamed "Cicada," is characterized by 70 to 75 mutations in its spike protein. These mutations differentiate it from prior strains. Experts suggest its highly mutated nature may make it more effective at evading current vaccines and immunity built from previous infections, potentially leading to another "summer surge."
According to the latest CDC data as of February 11, the variant has been detected in 25 states, including California, Florida, New York, Texas, and others.
What Are the Main Symptoms?
Similar to most other variants, the symptoms of the Cicada variant align with those of other COVID-19 infections. Some recent variants have been associated with an extremely sore throat, often described as "razorblade throat." Common symptoms for BA.3.2 include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Changes to the sense of smell or taste
How to Differentiate COVID-19 from the Flu?
Influenza and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses. It's difficult to tell them apart by symptoms alone due to significant overlap, although COVID-19 generally spreads more easily than the flu. The CDC recommends testing to confirm a diagnosis.
Typical flu symptoms include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
Duration and Contagious Period
Duration: According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, symptoms of mild to moderate COVID-19 typically last one to two weeks, while severe cases can last months.
Contagious Period: A person infected with COVID-19 can be contagious to others for up to two days before symptoms appear and remains contagious for 10 to 20 days after symptoms begin.
How to Get Free Testing
Some individuals may be eligible for free COVID-19 testing through their health insurance. Some state health departments also offer free vaccinations. You can search for your state's health department here.
Similarly, some may be eligible for no-cost COVID-19 at-home test kits through insurance. For example, Walgreens allows you to place an order online, and the pharmacy will submit a claim to your insurance to determine coverage. You can order your test kit here.