New Covid-19 Variant 'Cicada' Spreading Rapidly; Cases Confirmed In Over 20 Countries
A newly identified COVID-19 variant, informally called Cicada, has been spreading rapidly around the world, with over 23 countries confirmed cases so far. The scientists are closely monitoring the virus characteristics, transmissibilities, and potential impact.
The variant reportedly carries a distinct set of mutations. There is no evidence to indicate it is more dangerous than previous strains, such as Delta or Omicron.
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The new variant is spreading rapidly across the United States, with the virus confirmed in 29 states across the country. In the US, it was first detected in nasal swabs from four travelers. Since then, it has been detected in patients and the wastewater systems of 29 states.
It is believed that Cicada appears to have evolved from an Omicron sub-lineage, accumulating additional mutations primarily in the spike protein, the part of the virus that helps it enter human cells.
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