Coordinated by the Instituto de Salud Carlos III, the network has enabled the harmonization of methodologies and reinforced preparedness against emerging pathogens. This initiative built upon efforts started in 2021, extending the use of massive sequencing to various viruses of public health relevance.
Key achievements include the validation of procedures for full-genome analysis, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus. These advancements have facilitated early variant identification and viral evolution tracking through automated bioinformatics workflows.
From Canary Islands, ITER has actively participated in developing these bioinformatics tools. Collaboration has extended to researchers at the Complejo Universitario Hospital Ntra. Sra. de Candelaria and the Fundación Canaria Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Canarias, strengthening the regional reference laboratory.
The project also promoted educational outreach for students and the general public to bring molecular epidemiology closer to society. The legacy of this national network results in a more robust technological infrastructure and a better-coordinated scientific community to face future health challenges.
