Monitoring the evolution, spread and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through whole genome sequencing to enable fast genotype to phenotype prediction

Emerging viral infections, once established in the human population, may evolve with continued circulation. The evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in the Netherlands will be monitored throughout the phases of the pandemic with close to real-time whole genome sequencing, allowing fast responses in case of remarkable genomic changes, and providing a reference database for investigation of community outbreaks. Bioinformatic tools will be developed to rapidly identify changes that may impact ability to detect, treat and prevent infections. In case novel lineages start to emerge, the effects on transmission dynamics will be further investigated using in vitro and in vivo studies to specifically look at the receptor binding properties, pathogenicity and other relevant virus properties. The results will directly inform precise public health decision making to control the outbreak.