Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Andrew Stein MD, Consultant Physician. Last updated: June 2026
As we move through the spring of 2026, the landscape of COVID-19 continues to shift.
Whilst the virus has become a manageable part of seasonal respiratory health for many, new variants—most notably the BA.3.2 “Cicada” variant—have introduced subtle shifts in how the illness presents.
Here is the latest data on what symptoms to look for, and how the virus has evolved this year.
Named for its pattern of remaining dormant before surging in specific regions, the Cicada variant is the dominant strain as of April 2026.
Whilst it belongs to the Omicron family, it carries over 70 new mutations in its spike protein; making it highly effective at bypassing immunity from older vaccines or previous infections.
Is it more severe?
Current data from the CDC and WHO suggests that while Cicada is more transmissible, it does not cause more severe disease in healthy individuals compared to previous 2025 strains.
In 2026, COVID-19 increasingly mimics a “super cold” or a moderate flu. The classic symptoms of 2020 (like the total loss of taste and smell) are now significantly less common.
Top Symptoms Reported This Season:
The “Razor Blade” Sore Throat: This remains the hallmark early sign of current subvariants. It is often described as a sharp, intense pain that makes swallowing difficult.
Congestion and “Heavy” Headaches: Sinus pressure and persistent frontal headaches are more prevalent with the Cicada strain than with earlier Omicron versions.
Fatigue and Brain Fog: Many patients report a “post-viral slump” that lasts 7–10 days, characterised by difficulty concentrating and low energy.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, reduced appetite, and occasional diarrhea are being reported in roughly 20% of cases in the 2026 wave.
The “Fading” Symptoms:
Loss of Taste/Smell: Now occurs in fewer than 5% of reported cases.
High Fever: While low-grade fevers are common, “spiking” fevers (above 103°F/39.4°C) are seen less frequently in vaccinated populations.
Research from the RECOVER study (March 2026) has provided new insights into the long-term effects of recent variants.
Neurological Focus: Modern Long COVID cases are more frequently presenting as cognitive impairment (memory issues) and peripheral neuropathy (pins and needles) rather than lung scarring.
Metabolic Links: New findings suggest a 24% higher risk of developing high cholesterol in young people following a 2025-2026 infection, prompting doctors to recommend lipid screenings post-recovery.
Can your old tests still find the new variants?
Rapid Tests: Most at-home antigen tests remain effective at detecting the Cicada variant, but they may require serial testing (testing 48 hours apart) to catch the virus as viral loads peak slightly later with newer strains.
Vaccines: The 2025–2026 mRNA formulas remain the best defense against hospitalisation, though their ability to prevent “mild” infection from BA.3.2 has decreased slightly due to the variant’s mutations.
| Symptom | Frequency in 2026 | Note |
| Sore Throat | Very High | Often the very first sign. |
| Runny Nose | Very High | Mimics seasonal allergies. |
| Headache | High | Usually felt behind the eyes. |
| Cough | Moderate | Often dry or “tickly.” |
| Loss of Smell | Very Low | No longer a primary indicator. |
Bottom Line: If you feel like you have a “bad cold” or a “mild flu” this spring, it is statistically likely to be the Cicada variant.
Early use of antivirals like Paxlovid remains highly effective for those in high-risk groups, including those with Chronic Kidney Disease or heart conditions.
Have you noticed any of these “new” symptoms recently, or are you looking for ways to boost your immunity this season?
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