What are the Applications of Viral Genome Sequencing in Epidemiology?

Viral genome sequencing has numerous applications in epidemiology, including:

Tracking Viral Evolution: By comparing viral genomes over time, researchers can identify genetic changes and understand how viruses adapt to hosts and environments.
Outbreak Investigations: Sequencing can pinpoint the origin of an outbreak and trace the transmission pathways, aiding in containment efforts.
Surveillance: Continuous monitoring of viral genomes helps detect emerging variants and assess their potential impact on public health.
Vaccine Development: Understanding the genetic diversity of viruses informs vaccine design and helps predict vaccine efficacy against different strains.
Antiviral Drug Resistance: Sequencing can identify mutations associated with resistance to antiviral drugs, guiding treatment decisions.