New Delhi, April 7 -- A new variant of covid-19, called BA.3.2, has surfaced in several countries, highlighting yet again the virus's ability to continue mutating. While early reports point to a high number of spike-protein mutations (potentially enhancing its ability to enter human cells or evade immunity), global health authorities have urged caution without triggering a panic.

Mint explains what we know so far about the new variant, and how concerned you should be.

The latest variant is a part of the Omicron strain that swept across the globe in late 2021. It was first detected in 2024 in South Africa but had remained dormant until now, causing it to be dubbed 'cicada' (after the insect that remains underground for long periods befor...