There is an increasing incorporation of pathogen whole genome sequencing (WGS) into infectious disease surveillance. The data that are generated may facilitate a better understanding of disease transmission at multiple levels including within discrete clusters. Its utility and implementation, however, still poses many challenges. Implementation is not necessarily consistent between different pathogens and a unique approach may be needed for different organisms or uses. To develop these approaches, it is necessary to understand the data produced from WGS, which data are clinically useful, and how to develop a framework which conveys necessary information to front line providers. This Microbiology Rounds presentation will describe the methods and challenges to the implementation and reporting of pathogen WGS for infectious diseases.
Intended audience: Public health physicians, public health staff working in surveillance, epidemiologists, researchers, medical microbiologists and public health laboratory staff.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Describe the use of pathogen WGS for infectious disease surveillance
- Develop a structured approach to analyze and interpret WGS data for infectious disease surveillance
- Discuss the implementation challenges for the development and interpretation of WGS data
Presenter(s): Dr. Aaron Campigotto
Dr. Aaron Campigotto, MD, FRCPC, is a medical microbiologist, Division Head of Microbiology at SickKids, and Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto. His interest lies in the development of molecular based clinical laboratory tests, and the expanded role of next-generation sequencing within the microbiology lab to assist in clinical care.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies or views of Public Health Ontario, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by Public Health Ontario.
Accreditation
Public Health Ontario Rounds are a self-approved group learning activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). In order to receive written documentation for Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, please check “Yes” beside the question “Do you require CME credits?” on the registration form.
College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) Affiliate Members may count RCPSC credits toward their Mainpro+ credit requirements. All other CFPC members may claim up to 50 Certified credits per cycle for participation in RCPSC MOC Section 1 accredited activities.
PHO Rounds are also approved by the Council of Professional Experience for professional development hours (PDHs) for members of the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI).
For more information or for a record of registration for other Continuing Education purposes, please contact capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
Accessibility
Public Health Ontario is committed to complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodations to participate in this event, please contact 647-260-7100 or capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.
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