Traveler-based genomic monitoring strengthens early detection of health threats.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that its Traveler-Based Genomic Surveillance program has surpassed one million voluntary participants since launching in 2021. The initiative collects anonymous samples from international travelers arriving at select U.S. airports to help detect emerging diseases and viral variants before they spread widely in the U.S.
The program operates through partnerships with private firms and participating airports and complements other biosurveillance efforts, including analysis of airplane wastewater.
CDC officials said the data have enabled earlier identification of certain viral strains than global reporting systems, supporting domestic preparedness and response to public health risks.
“The United States is the world’s leading authority in public health,” said HHS Deputy Secretary and Acting CDC Director Jim O’Neill. “The broad participation of travelers enhances our ability to safeguard the nation using tools that are developed, operated, and governed here at home without reliance on unaccountable global bureaucracies.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Kennedy and Deputy Secretary O’Neill as they oversee the Department of Health and Human Services.
- For wisdom for CDC researchers and public health workers monitoring emerging disease threats.
- For U.S. health officials as they steward health data collected from voluntary participants.
Sources: Department of Health
