Operational considerations to expedite genomic sequencing component of GISRS surveillance of SARS-CoV-2
Overview
Representative, quality, timely and continuous genetic
surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 is critical to the COVID-19 outbreak response. This
document provides practical guidance to Global Influenza Surveillance and
Response System (GISRS) laboratories and other relevant national laboratories
to move beyond virus detection to genomic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive
materials obtained from sentinel surveillance of influenza-like illness (ILI),
acute respiratory infection (ARI) and severe acute respiratory infection
(SARI). It contains considerations on sample selection for sequencing, numbers
of viruses to be sequenced, metadata and timeliness for sharing genetic
sequence data (GSD) and opportunities for technical support.
See an updated version of this document:
End-to-end integration of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza sentinel surveillance: revised interim guidance (31 January 2022)
