Alpha variants

Alpha variants refer to a specific strain of a virus that has undergone genetic changes, making it distinct from the original version. In the context of COVID-19, the Alpha variant, first identified in the UK, showed increased transmissibility, meaning it spreads more easily between people. Variants like Alpha can arise due to mutations in the virus's genetic material as it replicates. Public health responses often adapt based on the characteristics of these variants, such as their transmissibility and severity, to better manage outbreaks and protect population health.