What are the challenges associated with WGS in Epidemiology?
Despite its advantages, WGS faces several challenges:
Data Management: The vast amount of data generated by WGS requires robust computational infrastructure and bioinformatics expertise for analysis and interpretation. Cost: Although the cost of sequencing has decreased, it can still be prohibitive for some public health laboratories, particularly in low-resource settings. Standardization: There is a need for standardized protocols and guidelines to ensure consistency and reliability of WGS data across different labs and studies. Ethical Considerations: The use of genetic data raises ethical issues related to privacy, consent, and the potential for misuse of information.
