"The Cicada variant stands out for its extensive mutations, particularly in the spike protein, the part of the virus targeted by vaccines and prior immune responses. Those changes could make it harder for the immune system to recognize, potentially reducing protection from past infections or vaccinations."
"Experts say the mutations of the Cicada strain could help it sidestep existing immunity and potentially gain traction during the summer, as COVID transmission spiked during the summer months in 2024 and 2025."
"This very mutated version could certainly make its rounds when we're both immunologically more vulnerable and we get together during the summer, said UCSF infectious disease specialist Dr. Peter Chin-Hong."
"Even so, there's no indication it causes more severe illness. It's not a more problematic strain than previous ones, said Dr. Adolfo Garcia-Sastre of Mount Sinai."
The Cicada strain of COVID-19, first identified in South Africa in late 2024, has been mutating since its arrival in the US. Detected in at least 31 states and over 30 countries, its prevalence remains low. Experts warn that mutations may allow it to evade immunity, particularly during summer when COVID transmission typically spikes. The variant's extensive mutations, especially in the spike protein, could hinder immune recognition. Despite these concerns, there is no evidence that it causes more severe illness than previous strains.
Read at sfist.com
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