SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance of migrants arriving to Europe through the Mediterranean routes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The implementation genomic-based surveillance on emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants in low-income countries, which have inadequate molecular and sequencing capabilities and limited vaccine storage, represents a challenge for public health. To date, there is little evidence on molecular investigations of SARS-CoV-2 variants in areas where they might emerge. We report the findings of an experimental SARS-CoV-2 molecular surveillance programme for migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers arriving to Europe via Italy through the Mediterranean Sea.

Methods

We descriptively analysed data on migrants collected at entry points in Sicily from February 2021 to May 2022. These entry points are integrated with a network of laboratorie

SUBMITTER: Tramuto F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11223754 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature