Public Perception and Policy for SARS-CoV-2 Whole Genome Sequencing and Genomics for All

Gap in understanding undermines government and public support for SC2-WGS, and other wide-scale genomic sequencing (Gut microbiome, Genome Wide Sequencing for Prenatal Detection, Tuberculosis Metagenomic sequencing, Nutrigenetics and Cancer Next Generation Sequencing) as a routine part of the pandemic response, especially in low- and middle-income countries. However, such gaps can be closed with systematic efforts to define and measure specific misperceptions, and subsequently design and use targeted messages and promotional materials. We propose here in the following specific aims to first determine the entire set of beliefs and emotions regarding SC2-WGS and other genomic sequencing (Gut microbiome, Genome Wide Sequencing for Prenatal Detection, Tuberculosis Metagenomic sequencing, Nutrigenetics and Cancer Next Generation Sequencing), then identify and measure limiting belief constructs, and then create social media and communication media to address and overcome limiting beliefs strategically. The goal is to increase public and policymaker support for SC2-WGS and other genomic sequencing (Gut microbiome, Genome Wide Sequencing for Prenatal Detection, Tuberculosis Metagenomic sequencing, Nutrigenetics and Cancer Next Generation Sequencing) resources and actions for pandemic control.