The World Health Organization is to release a new ten year strategy aimed at increasing global genomic surveillance.
The global genomic surveillance strategy for pathogens with pandemic and epidemic potential 2022–2032 provides a high-level unifying framework to increase existing capacities, address barriers and strengthen the use of genomic surveillance worldwide.
WHO’s data show that in March 2021, 54% of countries had this capacity, but this increased to 68% by January 2022, thanks to significant investments made during the COVID-19 pandemic. By January 2022, 43% more countries published their sequence data compared to the previous year.
WHO said more still needs to be done, but with the introduction of new technology comes the risk of increasing inequity, which is why its new strategy will help to plug those gaps.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, said: “The complexities of genomics and the challenges of sustaining capacities in different settings, including workforce needs, means that most countries cannot develop these capabilities on their own.
“The global strategy helps keep our eyes on the horizon and provides a unifying framework for action. WHO looks forward to working with countries and partners in this important and highly dynamic field. We will do best if we work together.”
WHO said the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the need for genomic surveillance, so that risks are rapidly detected and addressed.
Dr Michael Ryan, executive director, WHO Health Emergencies Programme, said: “Genomic surveillance is critical for stronger pandemic and epidemic preparedness and response.
“This pandemic has laid bare the fact that we live in an interconnected world and that we are only as strong as our weakest link. Improving global disease surveillance means improving local disease surveillance. That is where we need to act, and this strategy will provide us with the foundation.”
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