Nurmat Otabekov dismisses pandemic fears as Cicada strain of COVID–19 spreads globally

According to the specialist, the BA.3.2 strain was identified some time ago and is characterized by a slow and inconsistent rate of transmission. It earned the nickname "Cicada" because of its similarity to the insect that can remain dormant for up to 17 years; the mutation can exist for long periods without causing significant outbreaks.

Otabekov noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring the situation but currently sees no reason for alarm. He emphasized that there is no sufficient evidence to suggest that this strain is more dangerous than previous mutations. Preliminary studies indicate that Cicada shares clinical symptoms with the Omicron variant, typically presenting as upper respiratory issues such as nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and occasionally a loss of taste or smell.

While the strain appears to affect children more frequently than adults, Otabekov explained that this is due to several logical factors. During the pandemic, a vast majority of the global adult population was vaccinated or previously infected, developing antibodies. Children who have never encountered the virus before lack this pre-existing immunity, making them more susceptible to infection. Additionally, individuals with chronic illnesses, respiratory conditions, or weakened immune systems remain at risk.

Despite these factors, the health official downplayed the risk of a new crisis. While advising citizens to limit contact with individuals returning from areas where virus clusters have been detected, he stated that the authorities are far from believing that Cicada will trigger a new epidemic or pandemic.

The epidemiological situation in Uzbekistan is currently stable. Otabekov highlighted that the public has developed a level of resilience toward coronavirus variants similar to their approach to common respiratory infections. Furthermore, collective immunity has been established in approximately 80% of the population.

In closing, Otabekov urged against the spread of sensationalist news regarding new strains, reassuring the public that there are no grounds for anxiety. According to WHO data, the BA.3.2 variant was recorded as early as November 2024, and there remains no credible evidence that it leads to more severe clinical outcomes.