BANGKOK, THAILAND – A new Covid-19 variant named Cicada raised concern after being detected in several countries, including Japan, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.
Warning over Cicada variant
Jessada Boonyawongwiwat, deputy director of Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital, called on the public to closely monitor the emergence of the Cicada variant. The World Health Organization advised caution, as the strain could potentially spread rapidly.
Health authorities warned that Cicada might partially evade existing immunity. They noted that this could allow the virus to circulate more widely if precautions were relaxed.
There was no clear evidence that Cicada caused more severe illness than previous forms of Covid-19. Officials nonetheless cautioned that unchecked spread could still strain healthcare systems.
Characteristics of the Cicada variant
Cicada was identified as a sublineage of Omicron with several mutations. These changes were found particularly in the spike protein, which helps the virus bind to human cells.
Experts indicated that these mutations could lead to a rise in infections. They highlighted the potential for faster transmission between people in close contact.
The variant had no connection to the insect of the same name. It was transmitted from person to person via respiratory droplets, with no animal carriers detected so far.
Symptoms and risks
Reported symptoms were similar to those seen with Omicron infections. In some cases, patients experienced more pronounced breathing difficulties.
Persistent problems such as chronic cough or fatigue were also reported. Health officials warned that the increased transmissibility of Cicada could trigger clusters of outbreaks.
Such concentrated outbreaks could complicate management of the pandemic response. They added that rising case numbers might affect hospitals even if average disease severity remained unchanged.
Risk groups and complications
Older people were considered particularly vulnerable to the Cicada variant. Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart, lung and kidney disease also faced elevated risk.
These groups were more likely to develop complications, including pneumonia. Medical staff urged them to remain especially cautious in daily activities.
Although the variant might not be more severe overall, officials stressed that vulnerable groups should maintain strict protective measures. They emphasised the importance of early medical attention if symptoms appeared.
Precautions and vaccinations
In Thailand, there had been no large-scale outbreaks linked to Cicada at the time of reporting. Health authorities were closely monitoring the situation and tracking international developments.
Existing vaccines continued to play a role in reducing the severity of illness, according to officials. They encouraged people to stay up to date with recommended doses.
Health officers advised wearing masks in crowded or enclosed spaces and washing hands regularly. They also recommended avoiding close contact with people showing respiratory symptoms.
Your view
The original report invited the public to share their opinions on the Cicada variant and the official response.
Readers were asked whether they believed current health measures were sufficient to protect the population. They were encouraged to describe how they assessed the evolving situation in their own lives.