Experts are monitoring the new COVID-19 variant 'Cigarra' due to its mutation ability, observing its current impact on the first infected patients. This subvariant, designated as BA.3.2, is a descendant of the omicron strain, which emerged in late 2021 and caused one of the largest surges in infections since the start of the COVID pandemic. Unlike its predecessor, 'cigarra' presents multiple genetic changes, which concerns the scientific community as it shows more than 70 mutations in its structure, which could influence its behavior. How serious is 'cigarra', the new COVID variant? Authorities state that 'cigarra' has spread to more than 20 countries, although its impact is not yet massive. However, specialists' concern is due to its immune evasion ability, as QuadratÃn reports, this variant 'could reduce the protection from vaccines or previous infections'. The first data collected on this variant indicate that it is not clinically severe and presents as mild to moderate in people vaccinated against COVID. Symptoms of 'cigarra', the new COVID variant Some of the symptoms detected in the new COVID variant called 'cigarra' are: fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, muscle pain, headache. Some of its symptoms can be confused with those of other diseases, mainly respiratory infections, as well as previous COVID variants. The World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring the development of the COVID BA.3.2 variant, still classified as low risk but under observation, so authorities are urging not to let their guard down and to remain attentive to symptoms. Kyle B. Enfield, a professor of medicine at the University of Virginia, explained that this variant is different from those that emerged in past years because 'every time the virus replicates inside a cell, its genetic material mutates,' which gives the virus 'an advantage over other variants.' This causes vaccines to take longer to identify the viruses, allowing them to spread more easily in the body. Information from QuadratÃn and The Conversation.
New COVID-19 Variant 'Cigarra' Raises Concern Among Experts
The new subvariant BA.3.2, named 'Cigarra,' is a descendant of the omicron strain. Experts are concerned about its more than 70 mutations and immune evasion ability, although current data indicates mild to moderate illness in vaccinated individuals. Authorities urge vigilance.
