The new COVID-19 strain "Cicada" is coming to the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      On March 30, 2026, at 12:16 Society In the Nizhny Novgorod region, a new variant of the coronavirus, unofficially named "Cicada," may arrive in the coming months. This was reported by Alexey Nikонов, the editor-in-chief of the medical publication "Statsionar-Press," on his Telegram channel. According to him, the new variant of SARS-CoV-2 has already been identified in dozens of countries. This is yet another mutation of the virus that has an increased ability to spread and partially evades immune protection. However, there is currently no data indicating a more severe course of the disease. Nikонов notes that the appearance of "Cicada" in Russia and the Nizhny Novgorod region is practically inevitable, just as it was with previous variants of the coronavirus. It is presumed that the strain may spread by May to June, although an earlier appearance that may not be immediately detected is also possible. "The new strain may be more contagious and partially evade immunity, but so far it does not appear to be more dangerous than the current variants," Nikонов noted. However, he stated that there are currently no reasons for concern among the residents of the region. The main risk factors remain the decrease in immunity among the population and seasonality; however, the period of respiratory viral infections in the region is coming to an end. Recall that in January, the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation approved a new regulation for the diagnosis and treatment of coronavirus infection. According to the changes, a complete blood count is now included in the standard list of tests for all patients suspected of having COVID-19, including those with mild cases of the disease. Previously, such tests were mainly conducted in cases of complications. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and operational information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod." When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+