Cicada BA.3.2 Covid-19 variant detectable by Flowflex Covid-19 ART kits
The COVID-19 continues to evolve and one of the latest variants being monitored is the 'Cicada' Covid variant. Also known as the BA.3.2 variant, this variant has been quietly spreading across the globe. As of today, it is already detected in more than 20 countries and its low rate of detection could contribute to continued transmission. It was also reported that a 10 year old Singaporean girl, arriving in Taiwan on March 14, was infected with this new variant.
What is the Cicada BA.3.2 Covid-19 Variant?
The Cicada BA.3.2 Covid-19 variant is a highly mutated Omicron subvariant. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the variant was first detected in South Africa late 2024. The symptoms are largely similar to other Covid variants such as cough, fever chills, sore throat, congestion, shortness of breath, loss in sense of smell and taste, fatigue, headache, and diarrhoea or vomiting. Its high mutation may affect the effectiveness of existing vaccines.
Infectiousness of Cicada Covid variant
Experts noted that kids between 3 to 15 years old may be more susceptible to infection from this new covid variant, according to CNN. Although the new variant has not been observed to cause severe illness, vulnerable groups should still take extra care to protect themselves from the disease. These groups of people includes older adults, individuals with compromised health, pregnant individuals, and young children. To better protect these groups of people, early detection is key to allow timely treatment.
Self-test kits and emerging Covid variants in Singapore
Covid-19 continues to evolve, with new strains emerging globally. Self-testing remains important due to Singapore's dense population and connectivity to the rest of the world. As Covid's symptoms are similar to other respiratory diseases, it can be difficult to tell the diseases apart. The only way to find out is through testing. This raises an important question - Are existing Covid test kits still effective in detecting the new variants?
Flowflex's wet lab study analysis on the BA.3.2 variant, a newly identified subvariant of the Omicron variant, has been completed and submitted to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Results indicate that the Flowflex Covid-19 ART kit maintains its sensitivity in detecting the BA.3.2 strain. Our finding shows that the Cicada BA.3.2 covid variant could be detected at a comparable rate to other covid strains, including Omicron and Delta. Users of Flowflex can be assured that the test continues to meet regulatory requirements in Singapore and reliably detects this emerging variant.
This allows individuals to test conveniently at home and take appropriate health precautions based on their results. By taking preventive measures, individuals can better protect themselves and their loved ones. Staying vigilant and testing when necessary remain crucial in managing the impact of new variants.