Covid-19 Cicada Variant Has Not Entered Indonesia, UGM Expert: Not More Virulent

The emergence of a new Covid-19 variant nicknamed Cicada is currently in the global spotlight and triggering worldwide concern. Nevertheless, Indonesians are urged not to panic. An expert from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) confirms that the variant has not yet been detected in Indonesian territory.

Professor Tri Wibawa, a microbiology professor at UGM’s Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, explains that the Cicada variant is a derivative of the Omicron lineage, specifically the BA.3.2 subvariant. Based on epidemiological records, this variant was first identified in South Africa in November 2024.

“Current data does not indicate that the Cicada variant is more virulent than previous strains or variants,” Prof. Tri Wibawa stated on Friday (10/4).

After fading from view and evading global surveillance radar, the variant has resurfaced. As of February 2026, at least 23 countries have reported cases linked to the Cicada variant.

Here is a summary of data on the Cicada variant based on the expert’s explanation:

Clinically, Prof. Tri notes that there are no significant differences in symptoms between the Cicada variant and other Covid-19 variants. Patients generally complain of symptoms similar to mild flu. However, the severity still depends on each individual’s physical condition and immune system.

Regarding health protection, he stresses that vaccination remains the primary key. Individuals who have received full vaccine doses or those with natural immunity post-infection (survivors) have proven to have better protection.

“Individuals who have been exposed or vaccinated certainly have immunity that is more prepared to face this new variant threat,” he added.

Preventive measures against the Cicada variant remain the same as standard health protocols, namely:

Although the current situation is still under control, the public is expected to remain vigilant and not neglect basic health protocols to break the chain of virus transmission in the future.

Dominant variants in Indonesia are XFG (57%), LF.7 (29%), XFG 3.4.3 (14%) with low risk. Because the situation is still under control and low risk, no special actions are required.