COVID-19 continues to evolve, and each new variant raises understandable questions about symptoms, testing, and when it’s time to seek medical care. One of the newest variants attracting attention is the Cicada COVID variant, officially known as the BA.3.2 variant. While researchers are still learning about it, current evidence suggests it behaves similarly to recent Omicron subvariants rather than causing a completely different illness.
If you live in the Silver Spring, Maryland, area, here’s what you should know about the new COVID variant, its symptoms, and when medical evaluation may be appropriate.
What Is the Cicada COVID Variant?
The BA.3.2 variant is an Omicron subvariant that has been identified in multiple countries and detected in several U.S. states, including Maryland. Although “Cicada” has become a popular nickname, it is not an official scientific name. Health authorities are currently monitoring the variant, but it is not classified as a variant of concern based on available evidence.
Cicada Variant Symptoms
Current data indicates that Cicada variant symptoms are largely consistent with other circulating COVID-19 variants. Commonly reported symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Runny or congested nose
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fever
- Changes in taste or smell
Some patients may also experience nausea or diarrhea, though respiratory symptoms remain the most common. Because these symptoms overlap with the flu, RSV, allergies, and the common cold, testing is often the best way to determine the cause.
COVID Symptoms in 2026: What Hasn’t Changed
Although headlines often focus on each new COVID variant, the advice for managing symptoms remains familiar. Stay home if you’re sick, monitor how you feel, stay hydrated, and seek medical evaluation if symptoms worsen or you have concerns about your condition.
Emergency warning signs such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or inability to stay awake require immediate emergency medical attention.
When Should You Get Tested?
Testing remains one of the most reliable ways to confirm whether COVID-19 is causing your symptoms. It can also help guide decisions about work, school, family interactions, and medical care.
You should consider urgent care COVID testing if:
- You develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
- You’ve had close contact with someone who recently tested positive.
- Your symptoms continue to worsen.
- You need confirmation before returning to work, school, or other activities.
Because respiratory illnesses often share similar symptoms, testing can provide valuable clarity when you’re unsure what’s making you sick.
Why Early Testing Matters
Testing early can also help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses within your household, workplace, or community. Knowing whether your symptoms are related to COVID-19 allows you to make informed decisions about isolating when appropriate, notifying close contacts if needed, and seeking follow-up medical care if your symptoms change.
What Maryland Patients Should Know
For those searching for information about the new COVID variant Maryland, there is no evidence at this time that the Cicada COVID variant causes more severe illness than other recent Omicron subvariants. However, older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, and people with certain underlying health conditions may still face a higher risk of complications from COVID-19, regardless of the specific variant.
Paying attention to your symptoms and seeking medical care when needed remain important steps in protecting both yourself and those around you.
Convenient COVID Testing in Silver Spring
If you’ve been searching for “COVID testing near me”, Fast Track Urgent Care is here to help. We provide convenient walk-in care for patients experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and offer testing to help identify the cause of your illness. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, need answers after an exposure, or want prompt medical evaluation, our experienced team can help you receive timely care in Silver Spring, MD.
