National Genomic surveillance SARS-CoV2

Monitoring the variants of the SARS-CoV2 virus circulating in Switzerland is essential to define the key points for the management of the pandemic. Some variants of the virus have characteristics that can influence the course of the pandemic, such as greater contagiousness, more serious illnesses, ineffective vaccines or therapies, etc. It is therefore essential to know the strains in circulation. To do so, a network of laboratories has been set up to ensure geographically and demographically representative sequencing of samples positive for the coronavirus. This network is coordinated by CRIVE / HUG and brings together various laboratories in order to cover the territory and provide a sufficiently efficient platform for a significant analysis. The acquisition allows sequencing of more than 2000 samples / week throughout Switzerland. If a new variant is discovered, an analysis of the immunological characteristics can also be carried out, if this has not yet been done. This monitoring allows the assessment of the evolution of the pandemic and also serves as a basis for decision-making for the implementation of measures, in particular concerning international trafficking in persons.