Application of Genomic Studies in Epidemiological Surveillance: A MiniOverview - Abstract
The 21st century has already seen the emergence of four viral pandemics (Zika virus, 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, 2014 Ebola virus in West Africa and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The recent upsurge in certain diseases clearly indicates the need for continuous epidemiological surveillance and real-time monitoring of infectious diseases. Incorporating genomics into epidemiological surveillance offers a route to improve the overall health system. Recent advances in genomics and next-generation sequencing approaches provide new paradigms for monitoring transmission pipelines and reducing overall morbidity and mortality. In this mini-review, we highlight the advances in genomics, how they have been critical in epidemiological surveillance and monitoring outbreaks, and how they can help predict and monitor possible future outbreaks.