Whole genome sequencing as a tool to strengthen foodborne disease surveillance and response. Module 1

Download or read book Whole genome sequencing as a tool to strengthen foodborne disease surveillance and response. Module 1 written by World Health Organization and published by World Health Organization. This book was released on 2023-10-19 with total page 78 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Globally, there is growing recognition of foodborne diseases as a public health priority. From a public health perspective, foodborne diseases are largely preventable, and can be controlled through effective food safety systems that evaluate hazards along the food chain, from production to consumption. An integrated food chain surveillance system can detect and monitor foodborne bacteria, including antimicrobial resistant bacteria, throughout the food chain. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has the potential to change how we detect and monitor microbial hazards in the food chain, as well as how we assess, investigate and manage food safety risks. It is anticipated that this new technology will help reduce the burden of foodborne diseases, given its advantages over previous low-resolution typing and detection methods. The purpose of this manual is to provide guidance on: - The capacities that need to be in place before WGS can be useful for foodborne disease surveillance and response, - The options for implementing WGS; and - How to implement WGS within existing surveillance and response systems. The present module introduces WGS and its relevance to foodborne diseases; it defines the minimum capacities needed before a country can implement WGS for outbreak investigations and routine surveillance; and includes a section to assist countries in selecting an option for implementing WGS within their existing surveillance and response system.