Thailand Health Ministry Says Cicada Covid Variant Not Serious

The Ministry of Public Health has said the Covid-19 variant known as “Cicada” is expected to reach the country but is not considered a serious threat and does not require additional vaccination. Officials confirmed on Friday 27 March, that no cases have yet been detected in Thailand, although the variant has already been identified in multiple countries. The reassurance comes as global monitoring of the variant continues.

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The variant, scientifically labelled BA.3.2, has recently been tracked in the United States, where the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) observed a steady rise in cases through routine surveillance. The World Health Organization classified Cicada as a “variant of monitoring” in February after detections in Japan, Kenya, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

Dr Sopon Iamsirithaworn, deputy permanent secretary for Public Health, said the variant’s arrival in Thailand is inevitable but stressed it remains under normal monitoring. He noted that symptoms are mild and similar to those of common flu, with preventive measures unchanged. Risk groups include elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions.

Health officials added that the severity of illness has not increased with this variant. People who have previously received Covid-19 vaccinations are still protected against severe disease, reducing the need for concern or additional vaccine measures at this stage. Authorities emphasised that existing public health strategies remain sufficient.

The nickname “Cicada” was given due to the variant’s pattern of appearing in large numbers after going undetected for a period, similar to cicada insects that emerge after years underground. Despite its mutations, global health bodies have not classified it as a variant of concern.

The Bangkokpost reported that Thailand will continue surveillance and monitoring in line with international health agencies. Officials have indicated that no changes to vaccination policy or public health measures are currently planned, but the situation will be reviewed as more data becomes available.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 29 Mar 2026

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