Wellcome Sanger Institute launches new initiative to better understand respiratory viruses

A new initiative to better understand respiratory viruses has been launched by the Wellcome Sanger Institute. The new Respiratory Virus & Microbiome Initiative will lay the groundwork for large-scale genomic surveillance of respiratory viruses, building on the Institute’s genomics expertise and the experience gained sequencing millions of SARS-CoV-2 genomes during the pandemic. The initiative aims to develop the capability for routine genomic surveillance of respiratory viruses, including influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus and rhinovirus. It will also monitor for emerging pathogens. Led by researchers working in genomic surveillance of pathogens at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the initiative will work closely with partners at the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA), other public health bodies and UK academic institutions. The data generated by the initiative will lead to a better understanding of common pathogens present in the UK, act as an early warning system for new viruses, support public health responses, and...