University of Minnesota
https://twin-cities.umn.edu/
612-625-5000
Milestone
1.1.a

Sampling strategies

In progress
High priority

Refine strategies to improve efficiencies in obtaining sequences and isolates of circulating influenza viruses in human populations and a broad range of animal species, including species not previously recognized as important for influenza, such as bovine.

Progress Highlights

WHO: As an extension of ongoing of sampling strategies and assessment, data will be derived from the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS); additional sources include the WHO Global Influenza Programme, the Global Influenza Hospital Surveillance Network (GIHSN), and the WHO Collaborating Centers. 


WHO 2024 provided updated guidance on surveillance standards and operational approaches for an expanded GISRS that aims to strengthen national sentinel surveillance capacities for respiratory viruses and improve preparedness and response to future health emergencies caused by respiratory viruses.
 

Additional sources of data relevant to progress toward this milestone may include Africa CDC Institute for Pathogen Genomics (IPG) and PAHO collaborations on surveillance for influenza and other respiratory diseases.
 

The US CDC has provided funding and technical support to WHO GISRS for surveillance, global guidance, research on transmission zones, and regional network activities.
 

The NIAID Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response (CEIRR) program supports research on influenza virus evolution, emergence, transmission, and pathogenicity, with an international research infrastructure to respond to emerging and pandemic influenza.