Understanding virus strains is crucial for several reasons:
Tracking Transmission: Different strains can indicate how a virus spreads geographically and temporally. Vaccine Development: Strains with significant genetic differences may evade immunity provided by existing vaccines, necessitating updates to vaccine formulations. Treatment Strategies: Some strains may develop resistance to antiviral drugs, requiring modifications in treatment protocols. Public Health Interventions: Knowledge of prevalent strains can inform targeted public health responses and containment measures.