We aim to increase sequencing capacity and add to the depth of sequencing knowledge available in South-East Asia and African countries. The studies will rapidly add essential sequence data needed regarding COVID-19 cases in lower–middle income, least-developed countries. They will provide the basis for further study on inter-/intra-host variant emergence and vaccine escape in a unique population from a least-developed country in an understudied, but vitally important, region of the world.
In Cambodia, we currently sequence 96 samples/week and can submit ~95% to GISAID based on sequencing quality and coverage. This data is used to inform Cambodia Public Health authorities through weekly reports. In Africa (Niger, Cabo-Verde, Togo, Benin, Guinea and Senegal), an increase in computational power was initiated to assure timely & proper analysis of sequenced samples. After curation, sequences are deposited on GISAID. Further sequencing is underway for 20 atypical cases identified in Senegal. Screening kits obtained in this project will be distributed at the end of the WHO program to ensure sustainability of known VOC monitoring.
