“ VaSequIs” combines microbiology, genome sequencing and AI to detect infection risks in hospitals early and strengthen patient safety .
In North Rhine- Westphalia , an interdisciplinary research team is working on the " VaSequIs" project , developing new methods to detect and better understand infectious diseases at an early stage . This project combines established microbiological and epidemiological methods with molecular biological analyses, genome sequencing , and modern AI techniques . The goal is an innovative system that compares samples from patient care, drinking water supplies , and the wastewater network .
At the University Hospital Essen in North Rhine-Westphalia , automated samplers are being used for the first time to hygienically collect wastewater samples around the clock . These samples are then analyzed using molecular biology techniques and genetic sequencing. This allows researchers to precisely determine which pathogens are present and in what quantities .
Based on this data , scientists are creating time series analyses and developing AI- supported forecasts to detect potential infection outbreaks early . This allows hospital hygiene teams to react more quickly and, ideally , prevent outbreaks altogether. The project thus establishes a scientific foundation for a comprehensive monitoring system and strengthens patient safety in the long term .
Source: www.medizin.nrw
