FLORIDA – A newly identified COVID-19 variant is being monitored by federal health agencies after spreading to multiple states, including Florida. While early signs are raising some concern, experts say it’s still too soon to fully understand how significant the strain could become.

What we know:

The new variant, known as BA.3.2 and nicknamed the “Cicada variant,” was first detected in South Africa in November 2024. It later appeared in the United States in 2025 and has since been identified in roughly 25 states through wastewater surveillance. 

In Florida, only two cases had been reported to the CDC as of mid-February. Experts say that number remains very small compared to overall COVID-19 cases nationwide.

The World Health Organization has classified the variant as “under monitoring,” meaning it is being tracked but is not currently considered a major global threat.

What we don’t know:

Health experts say it’s still too early to determine how contagious or severe the variant may be.

It’s also unclear whether the mutations seen in BA.3.2 will significantly impact vaccine effectiveness or immunity from prior infections. More data is expected in the coming months.

What they’re saying:

Dr. Steven Goldberg, Chief Medical Officer of HealthTrackRX, says the variant is showing some early warning signs.

He notes the strain has multiple mutations that could potentially make it more resistant to existing immunity, though that has not been confirmed.

Goldberg said, “The number affected with this particular variant in the U.S. right now is still very, very small. It’s like one in 100 COVID cases are from this particular variant.”

Symptoms:

Doctors say symptoms linked to the Cicada variant appear similar to other COVID-19 strains and respiratory infections, including:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion
• Body aches

Big picture view:

The variant is becoming more dominant in parts of Europe, which is drawing attention from U.S. health officials.

Still, experts stress there is no immediate cause for alarm. Instead, they say this is a situation to watch closely as more information becomes available.

Health officials expect to have a clearer understanding of the variant’s spread and impact by early summer.

For now, experts recommend staying vigilant and continuing to follow general public health guidance if needed.

A 53-year-old Key West man was arrested on DUI and drug charges after deputies say he crashed an e-bike into a tricycle while intoxicated.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened around 10:26 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, near South College Road and U.S. 1 in Key West. Deputies said there were no serious injuries reported.

Authorities identified the man as Christian Everett Madrid. He faces charges of driving under the influence, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and smuggling contraband into a detention facility.

Investigators said Madrid was riding an e-bike when he collided with an adult riding a tricycle. The other rider told deputies that Madrid ran into him and appeared to be intoxicated.

Deputies said Saturday that Madrid was taken into custody after failing field sobriety exercises at the scene.

While being booked into jail, authorities said approximately three marijuana cigarettes were found in his possession, leading to the additional contraband charge.

What Florida law says about riding an e-bike while intoxicated

Under Florida law, electric bicycles are generally treated like traditional bicycles, meaning riders are not required to have a driver’s license and are not subject to the same registration rules as motor vehicles. However, when it comes to impairment, the law still applies.

Florida’s DUI statute makes it illegal to operate any vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent that normal faculties are impaired. Courts in Florida have interpreted “vehicle” broadly, and that can include bicycles and e-bikes in certain cases, according to law firm The Ticket Clinic.

A first-time DUI conviction in Florida can carry penalties including fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, up to six months in jail, probation, and mandatory substance abuse education. Additional charges, such as drug possession or bringing contraband into a jail, can increase potential penalties.