Toward a global virus genomic surveillance network.

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Genomics
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of virus genomic surveillance in public health.
• Significant advancements in infrastructure, training, and political will were achieved during the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the establishment of a sustainable global genomic surveillance network for diverse viral threats.
• To propose a flexible and cost-effective modular sequencing framework for enhanced readiness.
• To identify and address challenges, including global inequalities, in genomic surveillance.

Main Methods:

• Development of a generalizable modular sequencing framework adaptable to various virus targets.
• Analysis of challenges in global genomic surveillance, focusing on persistent inequalities.
• Exploration of cost-reduction strategies, including alternatives to clinical sequencing.
• Case studies using Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Dengue virus, and Lassa virus.

Main Results:

• A proposed modular framework offers cost-effectiveness and readiness for emerging viral threats.
• Identified key challenges in global genomic surveillance, particularly disparities between regions.
• Proposed solutions include enhanced training, multilateral partnerships, and alternative sequencing methods.

Conclusions:

• Sustaining and expanding genomic surveillance beyond COVID-19 is crucial for global health security.
• A modular approach and equitable resource distribution are essential for a robust global network.
• Genomic surveillance can significantly aid in controlling endemic/epidemic diseases and serve as an early warning system for outbreaks.