Why is Real-Time Sequencing Important in Epidemiology?

Real-time sequencing is a game-changer in epidemiology for several reasons:

Speed: Traditional sequencing methods can take days to weeks to produce results, whereas real-time sequencing can provide data in a matter of hours.
Accuracy: Real-time sequencing offers high-resolution data, allowing for precise identification of pathogen strains and mutations.
Portability: The small size and ease of use of modern sequencing devices make them ideal for fieldwork, enabling on-site analysis in outbreak zones.
Actionable Data: Immediate sequencing results can inform public health responses, guiding interventions to contain and mitigate outbreaks.