PulseNet Africa continued from page 34
Influenza A( H5N1) continued from page 35
Team Rightsizing continued from page 38 pilot, this study will demonstrate the capabilities of PulseNet Africa laboratories in AR detection and pathogen surveillance. In alignment with the One Health approach, the study will not only focus on human health but also integrate data from animal and environmental sources, ensuring a comprehensive strategy against infectious disease threats.
GLOBAL HEALTH | INFECTIOUS DISEASES | INFORMATICS
PulseNet Africa continued from page 34
Influenza A( H5N1) continued from page 35
Team Rightsizing continued from page 38 pilot, this study will demonstrate the capabilities of PulseNet Africa laboratories in AR detection and pathogen surveillance. In alignment with the One Health approach, the study will not only focus on human health but also integrate data from animal and environmental sources, ensuring a comprehensive strategy against infectious disease threats.
The reinvigoration of PulseNet Africa, in alignment with Africa PGI 2.0, represents a significant leap forward in enhancing genomic surveillance. By building trust among members, fostering regional collaboration, training a skilled workforce and prioritizing data-sharing, these efforts are laying the groundwork for a more resilient continent-wide disease surveillance system. As Africa continues to embrace pathogen genomics, these activities will play a pivotal role in foodborne and AR surveillance for the continent. g
Recognizing their request for specimens for influenza A subtyping went beyond submitters’ normal responsibility, Santa Clara County made it as easy as possible. They established a weekly courier and streamlined the necessary paperwork by matching specimens to additional health and demographic data in the California Reportable Disease Information Exchange(“ CalREDIE”) system.
The roles of these laboratories in leveraging routine surveillance networks for rapid response and implementing detection in new specimen and sample types, while leaning on established relationships, underscores how important collaboration across the public health network is. Whether maintaining influenza surveillance over the summer months with ongoing vigilance for influenza A( H5N1) or gearing up for the next respiratory season, the PHL community stands prepared for new and existing threats. g health informatics provides staff with continuous learning opportunities. This repository should include training in LIMS management, HL7 / FHIR data exchange and data visualization; and go beyond theoretical applications by including practical content, appropriately framed in the laboratory context, aimed at intermediate skill levels.
Moving Forward
As public health laboratories continue to modernize their data infrastructure, ensuring the appropriate workforce composition remains a priority. By defining core informatics roles and skills, implementing best practices in staffing and addressing workforce challenges, laboratories can build a sustainable and adaptable informatics team. g
Share your story with your peers!
Lab Matters, APHL’ s flagship publication, is seeking submissions from laboratorians at all levels of practice for“ From the Bench,” a member-driven section of its quarterly magazine.
Told from the unique perspective of laboratory scientists, administrators or staff, we welcome articles covering topics across public health laboratory science, administration, careers and management.
For more information on writing guidelines, contact:
Gynene Sullivan, MA Communications Manager gynene. sullivan @ aphl. org
240.485.2750
PublicHealthLabs @ APHL. org
APHL. org
Summer 2025 LAB MATTERS 39