Cicada COVID Variant: What You Need to Know

0:00Sikata is blowing up online, but forget the bugs. This is about a new COVID variant called BA.3.2, nicknamed Sikata. The CDC and WHO are keeping close tabs on it after it popped up first in November 2024. It's already hit 23 countries and at least 25 US states by February. It's part of the Omicron crew, packing 70 to 75 mutations that make it tricky. Right now, it's spreading but not running the show as the top strain. Experts like Dr. William Schaffner say we got to watch if it'll climb higher. Folks aren't seeing a big spike in bad cases nationwide hospital. Visits and emergencies are actually dropping. Some states like Massachusetts and Florida might see upticks though. Symptoms stay classic. Fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, shortness of breath. A fresh study shows the current vaccine isn't as strong against Akata as older strains, but it still offers some shield. No signs it's hitting harder than before, per docs like Dr. Celine Gounder.

1:04Health officials push shots for 65 and up, first timers, or high-risk folks with stuff like heart or lung issues. Time it for late May or early June to gear up for summer waves, just like before, we'll keep tracking how this plays out. Dallas News Today, powered by AI Bringing You What Matters.