Publication Highlight: Influenza A and B virus WGS using Illumina Microbial Amplicon Prep (iMAP) half reaction
In a new technical report, GenPath Africa colleagues Kerwin Liedeman, Stepfan de Villiers, Lucious Chabuka, Eduan Wilkinson, Cheryl Baxter, Lavanya Singh, and Tulio De Oliveira from the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University and the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), describe an optimized method for sequencing the entire genomes of influenza viruses. Their refined protocol makes it more affordable and reliable for laboratories to monitor seasonal flu and emerging pandemic threats.
What is this publication about?
This publication provides a step-by-step protocol for whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of Influenza A and B viruses. The researchers adapted the Illumina Microbial Amplicon Prep (iMAP) system by "miniaturising" the process, which allows them to use only half the standard amount of expensive laboratory reagents. Additionally, they modified the cleaning process to treat each sample individually rather than in a pool, which significantly improves the quality and consistency of the genetic data produced.
Why is this important?
Influenza remains a major global health threat, and tracking how these viruses evolve is essential for developing effective vaccines and treatments. However, the high cost of sequencing often limits how much testing can be done, especially in resource-constrained areas. By reducing costs and improving data reliability, this protocol enables more laboratories to contribute to high-quality genomic surveillance of influenza strains.
How can this make a difference?
By making advanced sequencing tools more accessible and cost-effective, this protocol supports faster and more accurate tracking of how flu viruses move and change. This information is vital for public health officials to detect new variants early, improve seasonal vaccine selection, and strengthen the global response to potential future pandemics.
Kerwin Liedeman, Stepfan de Villiers, Lucious Chabuka, Velda Wentzel, Tebogo Ramakutoane, Nondumiso Zakwe, Ottovon Dakurah, Eduan Wilkinson, Marije Hofstra, Cheryl Baxter, Lavanya Singh, Tulio De Oliveira, "Influenza A and B virus WGS using Illumina Microbial Amplicon Prep (iMAP) half reaction." Protocols.io, 2026. doi:10.17504/protocols.io.x54v9q49ql3e/v1.
