Pathogen evolution

Pathogen evolution refers to how microorganisms like bacteria and viruses change over time through genetic variations. When a pathogen replicates, small genetic errors can occur, creating new versions. Some of these changes may make the pathogen more transmissible, harmful, or resistant to treatments. If these traits give the pathogen an advantage, they become more common in future populations. This ongoing process of change helps pathogens adapt to their environments, including human immune responses or medical interventions, making it challenging to control or eradicate them.