Last Updated: January 30, 2023
Variants have been identified worldwide. Certain variant strains are known as variants of concern because they spread more easily than other strains, meaning they are more contagious. These new variants may also cause more severe illness. The increased spread of COVID-19 results in more illness, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Variant strains are expected to continue to be identified in the future. International scientific and public health communities continue to work to understand the biological significance of these strains, including how current vaccines may help protect against them.
Several variant strains of COVID-19 have been identified in Alberta.
Alberta is continuously monitoring for all variant strains of COVID-19. Refer to Alberta Health for the latest case numbers.
To protect yourself and those around you, take these steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19, even if immunized:
