This project examines the added value of pathogen whole genome sequencing for public health and clinical management of high burden communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, and two foodborne diseases salmonellosis and listeriosis.
Epidemiologists will work together with microbiologists and public health professionals to examine the precision and timeliness of bacterial identification, genotyping and antibiotic resistance detection as well as the number, size and duration of outbreaks, and the proportion of sporadic or secondary cases. Enablers and barriers to the most optimal use of pathogen genomics by clinicians and public health professionals will be identified.
The use of the Translational Research Grants Scheme funding aims to demonstrate enhanced timeliness and accuracy of outbreak tracing.
Collaborators: Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology-Public Health at Westmead Hospital, Pathology West, NSW Health Protection, University of Sydney (Marie Bashir Institute of Emerging Infectious Diseases)