Little Rock, Arkansas – Health experts in Arkansas are keeping a close watch on the so-called “Cicada” COVID variant as it begins to make its presence known across the United States. Officially known as BA.3.2, the variant has sparked discussions among public health officials due to its unique pattern of dormancy and resurgence. While Arkansas has not reported any cases so far, specialists warn that it may only be a matter of time before the variant reaches the Natural State.
“The reason why they call it the cicada variant is because we first saw this in around 2022,” explained Austin Porter, state epidemiologist with the Arkansas Department of Health. “And just like cicadas, they go dormant for a period of time, and then they pop back on us.” Porter noted that this cyclical behavior is part of why the virus has the potential to spread suddenly once it appears in a new area.
According to Porter, the Cicada variant is already present in 25 other states, based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports. “National reporting is not showing Arkansas reporting any of this new variant, the cicada variant,” he said. “But it would not surprise me if we were to see this in the next few weeks to months.” This cautious outlook underscores the unpredictability of emerging COVID variants and the importance of remaining vigilant even as infection rates fluctuate.
Local pharmacists are also monitoring the situation and emphasizing preventive measures. Anne Pace of Kavanaugh Pharmacy said that the continuing waves of COVID cases are not unexpected. “COVID hasn’t gone away,” she said. “We certainly continue to have COVID outbreaks. There’s definitely COVID around.” Both Porter and Pace stressed that standard precautions, such as proper handwashing, continue to be essential.
The experts also highlighted that while older adults and those with underlying health conditions remain the most vulnerable to severe outcomes, children might face a higher risk of contracting the Cicada variant. “Preliminary reports are showing that kids are at the greatest risk of this new variant,” Porter said. “So I think especially as our kids are entering the final stretch of school, just to continue to protect themselves.” Pace added that individuals over 65 and anyone with high-risk conditions should pay particular attention to protective measures if the variant emerges locally. “Over 65 considers you high risk,” she said. “And then any sort of high-risk condition is where I would definitely focus for people over 65 and even younger.”
Although the Cicada variant does not appear to cause more severe symptoms compared to previous strains, it is reportedly better at spreading and evading certain immune protections. This has prompted health officials to urge residents to remain cautious, maintain good hygiene, and stay informed about local updates regarding COVID cases.
While Arkansas has not yet reported cases of BA.3.2, the experiences of other states serve as a reminder of how quickly new variants can appear. Experts recommend that residents, especially those in high-risk groups, continue vaccination and preventive routines while preparing for the possibility that the Cicada variant could arrive in the coming months.
As Porter emphasized, awareness and early precautions are key. “Just like cicadas, these things can be dormant and then pop back on us,” he said, reminding Arkansans that vigilance remains a critical part of managing the pandemic.
