Next generation sequencing for pandemic preparedness

Abstract

Pandemic have affected us before and possibly will be challenging us in future with COVID-19 being an eye opener. One of the ways to understand our challenger is to know their genome sequence which helps identify the pathogen, vis-a-vis new strain or novel mutations in the pre-existing pathogen. The strength of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) based SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing has facilitated insights into virus genome architecture and its functional role in clinical outcome. On the positive note, it has brought to fore the strength of genomics towards genomic surveillance and develop means toward pathogen detection, evolution, mutation associated with clinical symptoms and longitudinal population-level screening. The preparedness will be helpful for faster and effective response in a targeted way for susceptible group of individuals.