Lab Matters Winter 2023 | Page 9

FROM THE BENCH national databases for that user . At this time , there will not be an option to have local database fields . However , PulseNet is working to create additional fields for non-PII data such as local cluster codes in response to feedback . Local data that is not uploaded to the national databases will not be transferred to PulseNet 2.0 . Prior to the transition , member laboratories should evaluate what data in their local databases should be saved , archived or uploaded to the PulseNet national databases .

Looking Forward

Looking toward the future , PulseNet 2.0 will be a pilot program for the larger Advanced Molecular Detection ( AMD ) Platform , projected for deployment in 2025 . This platform intends to integrate with CDC-sponsored programs generating genomic data for genomic epidemiology analytics . More information will be available as the AMD Platform is developed , and PulseNet will ensure timely communications about updates that may impact results . Additionally ,

PulseNet anticipates providing further details on the transition and timeline for future functionalities within PulseNet 2.0 in early 2024 . g

We would like to acknowledge Steven Stroika ; Lavin Joseph , MS ; Christine Lee , PhD ; Kelley Hise , MPH ; and Heather Carleton , MPH , PhD from Division of Foodborne , Waterborne and Environmental Diseases , Enteric Diseases Laboratory Branch , CDC ; and Jennifer Adams from APHL for their expertise , feedback and support in shaping this article .

Frequently Asked Questions : What do we need to do to prepare for the transition to PulseNet 2.0 ?

Provide your IT department with the PulseNet 2.0 White Paper to begin assessing needs and concerns . Member laboratories will be responsible for ensuring their surveillance data is currently uploaded to the national databases and a plan is made for other data in your BioNumerics databases that might need to be saved . Participation and feedback on PulseNet 2.0 development will continue to help guide development . Please share your thoughts and concerns with PulseNet @ cdc . gov .

What will happen to my data in BioNumerics after the transition to PulseNet 2.0 ?

BioNumerics will no longer be supported after the transition to PulseNet 2.0 . The program and analyzed data will still be accessible while you own a license to use the software . BioNumerics will no longer work for new analyses using CDC resources like the calculation engine , connection to the PulseNet national databases or NCBI uploads .

What about the data not in the national databases , can we get that into PulseNet 2.0 ? Currently , only data uploaded to the national databases will be transferred to PulseNet 2.0 . When will we see the PulseNet 2.0 system if we are not a pilot lab ?

Initial MVP testing was completed in mid-September 2023 and CDC PulseNet has started introducing the PulseNet 2.0 MVP platform while development continues towards a fully operational system .

Will there be training before FOC is completed ?

CDC PulseNet intends to begin developing training and training modules on the platform to ready users to onboard to the system as soon as its surveillance ready . PulseNet anticipates this to start in early 2024 .

Do we need a MS Azure cloud environment ?

PulseNet members will access the cloud through SAMS authentication in a web browser . PulseNet 2.0 will be hosted in Microsoft Azure cloud through CDC ; members will not need their own Azure environment .

Will there be a cost ? There will be no initial cost to PulseNet participating laboratories and it is not anticipated that there will be future costs . What IT requirements do I need to prepare my lab for ? Provide your IT department with the PulseNet 2.0 White Paper to begin assessing needs and concerns . What if our IT is wary of our data submitted to a cloud environment ?

CDC PulseNet is aware that some members may not be able to access a cloud environment . CDC ’ s cloud is safe and secure ; however , we are exploring options to allow access to functions of PulseNet 2.0 ’ s cloud through a web application .