Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is expected to replace conventional techniques in the coming years, given the rapidly declining costs and the wealth of data extractable from the genome. Some WHO Member States are interested in understanding how the technology can be implemented, and the immediate and future benefits that the data can provide to their public health systems including in resource-limited settings.
A pilot project was developed in partnership by FDA-CFSAN, WHO/PAHO and the Infectious Disease Institute – ANLIS “Dr. Carlos G. Malbran” a component institution of the Argentine public health infrastructure. The general objective is to create the necessary capacity for sharing genomic data in real time to enable faster and more accurate diagnoses and surveillance of foodborne diseases.
The project will evaluate how WGS can be used to characterize and trace pathogens to their sources (food or animal reservoir), and to support risk management decisions. The immediate goal of the project is to improve the control of foodborne outbreaks through rapid identification of pathogens, although other applications have been envisioned. The experiences in Argentina will be used to develop guidance, for countries considering the use of WGS to support surveillance and response activities.
Contacts
FDA-CFSAN: Peter Evans (peter.evans@fda.hhs.gov)
WHO/PAHO: Enrique Perez (pereze@pan.ops-oms.org, and Amy Cawthorne cawthornea@who.int)
ANLIS: Isabel Chinen (ichinen@anlis.gov.ar, and Josefina Campos jcampos@anlis.gov.ar)