Alpha variant

Definitions

The highly virulent B.1.1.7 strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.

Examples

“The CDC predicted the Alpha variant, known by the scientific name⟳ B.1.1.7, became the dominant strain⟳ during the two-week period ending with March⟳ 10.”

“One way the Alpha variant became more transmissible was by getting better at sneaking past the intruder alarm - called the interferon response - inside our body's cells. But this does not mean⟳ that by the time we work⟳ through the Greek alphabet of variants and reach⟳ Omega that we'll end⟳ up with an unstoppable beast.”

“Studies have⟳ analyzed and compared the symptoms and effectiveness of the vaccine against the COVID-19 variants, with differing results. Some studies found that the Alpha variant may increase⟳ the risk⟳ of ICU admission and mortality, while others concluded there were no significant differences.”

CEFR level