Genomic surveillance can track the transmission of infectious diseases and help identify novel strains of a virus. For this, scientists use a process called sequencing to decipher the genetic material that is found in a virus or organism. This helps scientists see how a virus is changing, track its spread, and predict how this may affect people’s health.
In response to the critical role of genomic surveillance in combating infectious diseases, Türkiye is intensifying efforts to strengthen its national capacity for genomic surveillance. The initiative, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the Ministry of Health (MoH) and WHO Country Office in Türkiye, aims to enhance laboratory capabilities for the diagnosis and surveillance of various pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, to bolster health security in the country.
New national strategy
Under the technical collaboration of the WHO Country Office in Türkiye, Türkiye has made significant investments since 2020 in sequencing equipment, computing infrastructure, personnel training, and data management and sharing for SARS-CoV-2. These resources have been expanded to encompass other priority pathogens, ensuring a comprehensive approach to infectious disease surveillance.
To consolidate and expand the progress made thus far, Türkiye is developing a national genomic surveillance strategy that encompasses all areas of infectious disease genomic surveillance. The strategy aims to build upon existing capacities, address weaknesses, and capitalize on opportunities. It will provide a unified vision for utilizing genomics to address public health needs and will be instrumental in reinforcing health security.
‘’This project is built upon long-standing and ongoing support from the EU to Türkiye for the alignment of its communicable disease surveillance system with the EU as part of EU-Türkiye financial cooperation in the health sector. The overall objective of this cooperation with Türkiye is to foster good health, protect citizens from threats, and support the sustainability of health systems,’’ says Mrs Figen Tunçkanat, Sector Manager for Health, with the EU delegation to Türkiye.
A collaborative process for better health
In order for the national genomic surveillance strategy to obtain technical review and high-level endorsement, technical experts, decision-makers, and representatives from various institutions and partners involved in the project met from June 13 to 15, using presentations and technical discussions to review and endorse the strategy over the course of 2 and a half days.
As a result, a technical review of, and agreement on, the final national genomic surveillance strategy is expected, along with high-level endorsement of the strategy, and the establishment of a steering/coordination committee to guide implementation. These outcomes will set the stage for the next steps and operational planning process.
Participants at the meeting included members of the genomic surveillance strategy task force, with representatives from the Turkish MoH’s Department of Communicable Diseases and Early Warning, MoH Health Information System General Directorate, WHO Country Office in Türkiye, as well as representatives from selected universities and TÜBİTAK (Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye), international partners, donors, and organizations, such as the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and European Food and Safety Authority (EFSA).
The national genomic surveillance strategy will play a crucial role in informing public health actions, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. By strengthening genomic surveillance, Türkiye aims to enhance its ability to identify and monitor variants of concern and interest, as well as other emerging and re-emerging pathogens. This strategic approach to genomic surveillance will undoubtedly contribute to safeguarding public health and ensuring the country's preparedness for infectious diseases.