Currently, only a tiny fraction of all positive coronavirus tests in the United States are forwarded for further sequencing. Genetic sequencing is important because the coronavirus, like all viruses, mutates as it moves through people. But, in practice, the program relied on a haphazard patchwork of academic labs contributing genetic sequencing on a volunteer basis. Last month’s stimulus bill included funding that could help ramp up genetic sequencing, health officials said. Biden administration officials said the president’s $1.9 trillion proposed spending plan also includes much-needed funding for genetic sequencing.
