WHO report supports global use of genetic sequencing to fight antimicrobial resistance

A new publication by the WHO provides an overview of whole genome sequencing (WGS) to track antimicrobial resistance (AMR), by sharing information about how to implement the technique. This will help improve the global monitoring of antimicrobial resistance by enabling countries to track its spread in more detail.

The Technical Note, Whole-genome sequencing for surveillance of antimicrobial resistance, outlines the benefits and limitations of WGS for surveillance, and discusses what is needed to apply it more widely in the fight against AMR.