INNOVATIVE METHODS OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE DIAGNOSTICS: FROM METAGENOMIC SEQUENCING TO POINT-OF-CARE TESTING AND THE ROLE OF PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

Rapid and accurate diagnostics is a cornerstone of effective control over infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The transformation of infectology into a multidisciplinary field has led to the emergence of two key innovative directions: next-generation metagenomic sequencing (mNGS) and point-of-care tests (POCT). mNGS provides hypothesis- independent identification of any pathogens, including uncultivated and novel ones, while POCT allows for real-time clinical decision-making at the primary care level. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the technological features, clinical value, and limitations of these methods. Particular attention is paid to public governance and management issues necessary for their effective integration into the healthcare system. Based on their own research, the authors substantiate the prospects of using nanotechnology developments to create a new generation of diagnostic platforms. The issue of equitable access to modern diagnostics as a key component of public health is highlighted, and a model of an integrated multi-level system is proposed. The methodology includes analytical review of scientific literature, comparative analysis of technologies, and a systematic approach to assessing management challenges. The work proposes a diagnostic model combining the speed of POCT at the primary level with the analytical depth of mNGS at the reference level, supported by a digital public health platform. The conclusions emphasize that technological progress must be accompanied by a transformation of healthcare management, and ensuring equitable access to diagnostics is a central socio-ethical principle of effective public health policy and AMR control.