The fight against viral infections: The critical role of genome sequencing

As climate continues to shift, it alters ecosystems and human behaviours in ways that impact the spread and emergence of infectious diseases.

Dr Gunisha Pasricha

Published Aug 15, 2024 | 10:00 AM ⚊ Updated Aug 15, 2024 | 10:00 AM

DNA Virus. (iStock)

The prevalence of infectious diseases has surged in recent years, driven by factors such as increased global travel, urbanisation, and environmental changes.

As our climate continues to shift, it alters ecosystems and human behaviours in ways that impact the spread and emergence of infectious diseases.

For instance, rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can expand the habitats of disease-carrying vectors like mosquitoes and ticks, leading to the spread of diseases into new regions.

In India, the burden of viral infectious diseases is particularly heavy, exacerbated by the country’s dense population, varying climates, and socio-economic factors.

Viral infections constitute approximately 50 percent of the overall infectious disease burden in India. In 2020, viral diseases were responsible for about 15-20 percent of all outpatient consultations and 10-12 percent of hospital admissions.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, genetic testing, particularly genetic sequencing, provides unparalleled advantages in the identification and management of viral infections.

Here’s how:

Uncovering Viral Mutations: Genetic sequencing allows for a detailed analysis of viral genomes, revealing specific genetic mutations that may alter the virus’s behaviour. Understanding these mutations helps in assessing changes in virulence, transmissibility, and potential resistance to existing treatments.
Accelerating Diagnosis: Rapid sequencing technology enables the swift identification of new or uncommon viral strains. This speed is crucial in diagnosing infections early, which in turn facilitates timely and appropriate therapeutic interventions.
Tracking Viral Spread: By monitoring the genetic evolution of viruses, sequencing helps trace the spread of infections and pinpoint outbreak sources. This information is essential for implementing effective public health measures and controlling the spread of diseases.

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Case studies and impact

The impact of genetic sequencing is evident in various case studies. For instance, during the Covid-19 pandemic, sequencing played a pivotal role in tracking viral variants and guiding vaccine development and public health strategies.

Similarly, genomic analysis played a crucial role in understanding transmission patterns and tailoring interventions for recent outbreaks of viruses such as Chandipura, Nipah, Zika, and Monkeypox, all of which have public health significance.

As infectious diseases continue challenging global health systems, embracing such technologies is crucial in effectively addressing current and future viral threats.

(Dr Gunisha Pasricha, Principal Scientist, Infectious Diseases, MedGenome. Views expressed are personal.)

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