According to updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, BA.3.2 is currently classified as a variant under monitoring. The WHO assesses its risk to public health as low compared with circulating Omicron lineages.

The variant was first detected in South Africa on November 22, 2024. Initial data show changes in antigenic characteristics and immune-evasion ability in laboratory conditions.

However, there is currently no evidence that BA.3.2 increases disease severity, hospitalisations or deaths. The WHO also says existing COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide effective protection against severe illness and mortality.

In response, the Ministry of Health said it will continue to closely monitor global developments and emerging variants. Preventive health systems and medical facilities have been instructed to maintain surveillance, ensure early detection and conduct risk assessments to remain ready to respond when necessary.

The ministry advised the public not to be anxious but not to be complacent. People should monitor their health, maintain personal hygiene, wear masks when necessary and seek medical care if symptoms appear.

High-risk groups, including the elderly, those with underlying conditions and pregnant women, are urged to take extra precautions to reduce complications.

The BA.3.2 variant, also referred to as “cicada”, has been detected in at least 25 states in the US, according to the CDC. As of early 2026, it has been recorded in at least 23 countries, including Japan, Australia, Germany and several European countries.

Experts are paying close attention to BA.3.2 due to the large number of mutations on the spike protein, which enables the virus to enter cells and distinguishes it from currently circulating strains.

Symptoms associated with BA.3.2 are similar to earlier COVID-19 variants, including cough, fever, chills, sore throat, nasal congestion and loss of taste and smell.

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