A Bangladeshi father-daughter duo identify coronavirus genome sequence which scientist hope will help develop a vaccine for our own population.

A team of eight researchers of Child Health Research Foundation (CHRF), led by Dr Sejuti Saha, identify the genome sequence.

Dr Samir, a veteran microbiologist and his daughter Senjuti Saha jointly informed the media about their feat. CHRF also announced the breakthrough in a press release.

Prof Dr Sharif Akhteruzzaman of the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology of Dhaka University  said “Whole genome sequencing will help researchers identify genetic changes that occur in a virus when it spreads through the population,” he wrote.

“Changes in the genetic sequence of the viral genomes collected from several patients will allow the monitoring of the spread of the disease within the country and between populations over time,” Mr Zaman said.

The most important information from the viral genome sequence at this moment will be identification of particular viral strains that are prevalent in our country, identify infection hotspots or super-spreaders and formulate strategies for public health intervention, he wrote.

“This will also help develop a vaccine targeting our own population.”

Bangladesh has been grappling with coronavirus outbreak. The government shut down educational institutions and closed all non-essential services and transports as it declared a general holiday.