At a glance
- With CDC support, Moldova used whole genome sequencing (WGS) for the first time in the field to investigate a Salmonella outbreak.
- Using WGS along with traditional epidemiology allowed local health experts and CDC-trained fellows to quickly detect and stop the outbreak.
- By expanding access to U.S.-supported genomic tools overseas, CDC helps detect dangerous pathogens before they can reach the U.S.
U.S.-led scientific expertise in the frontlines
When a spike in Salmonella cases hit Moldova in 2025, U.S.-led health expertise helped stop the outbreak before it could spread further. With the support from the CDC, Moldovan health experts and CDC-trained fellows moved quickly to investigate cases, identify connections and protect communities.
Working alongside Moldova's National Agency of Public Health (NAPH), teams collected samples from patients, conducted interviews and applied advanced laboratory science to determine how cases were linked.
By late August, nearly 147 people had been sickened. With CDC support, Moldova's national public health reference laboratory used whole genome sequencing (WGS) for the first time during an active outbreak of foodborne illness. The technology allows scientists to identify the unique genetic "fingerprint" of the bacteria, helping to determine whether infections are connected and where an outbreak may have started.
Using WGS alongside traditional epidemiology, investigators identified links among cases and focused their response on potential sources of contamination. The approach allowed health officials to act faster, reducing the risk of additional illnesses.
Foodborne illness investigations often require close coordination across sectors to trace contaminated food through the supply chain and stop outbreaks at their source. To strengthen these efforts, CDC partnered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to support Moldovan experts through joint training and information sharing. The collaboration highlighted proven U.S. food safety practices and demonstrated how genomic tools can guide faster, more effective response actions.
Why it matters
Faster answers save lives
WGS helps identify outbreak sources sooner, leading to quicker interventions and fewer illnesses.
Protecting families and economies
Stronger food safety systems reduce disruptions to daily life, healthcare systems and trade.
Smart investments with real returns
Studies show that combining WGS with traditional detection methods saves lives and reduces costs by stopping outbreaks early.
Keeping Americans safe
Health threats do not stop at borders. Better-prepared partners abroad reduce the risk of dangerous pathogens spreading to the United States.
By expanding access to U.S.-supported genomic tools overseas, CDC helps detect dangerous pathogens before they can cross borders and threaten American families. This work reflects how American leadership in global health security delivers measurable benefits at home.
The response in Moldova is one example of how CDC's partnerships across Eastern Europe and Central Asia are building the next generation of disease detectives, strengthening global preparedness and protecting Americans by stopping outbreaks where they begin.