By Ayomide Otitoju
With support from the Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens (SAGO), the World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a global framework designed to aid Member States in thoroughly investigating the origins of new and re-emerging pathogens. This framework represents the first unified and structured approach for such investigations and aims to address existing gaps by providing a comprehensive set of scientific protocols and studies.
The framework includes six technical elements:
Early Investigations: Identifying potential sources of exposure and collecting samples at the outbreak’s source.
Human Studies: Understanding epidemiology, clinical presentation, transmission modes, and early detection in surveillance samples.
Human/Animal Interface Studies: Identifying potential animal reservoirs, intermediate hosts, and reverse zoonoses.
Vector and Environmental Studies: Identifying insect vectors, other infection sources, and environmental presence.
Genomics and Phylogenetics: Analyzing precursor strains, genomic characteristics, evolution in hosts, and spatial distribution.
Biosafety/Biosecurity: Investigating potential breaches in laboratory or research settings.
The WHO framework is a resource for scientists, researchers, public health authorities, and investigators. It offers guidance on initiating multi-disciplinary investigations and outlines the necessary capacities and tools, including surveillance systems and biosafety regulations. It emphasizes the importance of rapid, transparent sharing of findings to mitigate transmission and prevent future pandemics.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the framework’s significance, stating, “Understanding when, where, how, and why epidemics and pandemics begin is both a scientific and moral imperative.” He also reiterated the call for China to share information on COVID-19’s origins to facilitate a comprehensive investigation.
Established in November 2021, SAGO comprises independent experts tasked with developing this global framework as part of WHO’s enhanced health emergency preparedness and prevention system.
