The potential of genomic epidemiology: capitalizing on its practical use for impact in the healthcare setting

Pacchiarini, Nicole, McKerr, Caoimhe, Morgan, Mari, Connor, Thomas R. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2394-6504 and Williams, Christopher 2025. The potential of genomic epidemiology: capitalizing on its practical use for impact in the healthcare setting. Frontiers in Public Health 13 , 1504796. 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1504796

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Abstract

The rapid detection and containment of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) is critical in preventing and controlling infectious disease outbreaks within healthcare settings. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has emerged as a powerful tool for tracking the transmission dynamics of pathogens and when used alongside traditional epidemiological methods it can better inform our understanding of the pathogen origin, pathway and extent of transmission. Additionally, WGS can aid in identifying previously unrecognized reservoirs of infection, allowing for more effective control strategies and targeted interventions. This article describes the incorporation of WGS into infectious disease management in Wales and explores it in the context of COVID-19 and . We also describe the developments made to the workforce in Wales to enable the expansion of WGS and reflect on the resources, infrastructure and training frameworks still required. [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2025 Pacchiarini, McKerr, Morgan, Connor and Williams.]

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Biosciences
Publisher:	Frontiers Media
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	5 March 2025
Date of Acceptance:	16 January 2025
Last Modified:	05 Mar 2025 10:30
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/176624

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