A newly discussed COVID-19 subvariant, BA.3.2 - nicknamed “Cicada” - has been detected in several countries, prompting questions about whether it poses any risk for Uzbekistan.

The situation was addressed by Nurmat Atabekov, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Sanitary and Epidemiological Wellbeing and Public Health, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

He noted that the variant is not new and has been known to scientists for some time.

Atabekov said that the strain does not show high transmissibility, which is why it has been referred to as “Cicada” - drawing a parallel with the insect known for long periods of dormancy. There is currently no evidence that BA.3.2 spreads faster or causes more severe illness than earlier variants.

The World Health Organization reports that the mutation has been identified in around 23 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Mozambique. However, global health experts do not currently consider it a serious threat.

Symptoms appear similar to the Omicron variant, including runny nose, cough, sore throat, and irritation of mucous membranes. In some cases, patients may experience loss of smell and taste.

Health officials say infections are occurring more frequently among children, while adults benefit from existing immunity gained through vaccination or prior infection.

The epidemiological situation in Uzbekistan remains stable. With widespread population immunity, there is no cause for panic, and experts urge the public to avoid misinformation and alarmist claims circulating online.