What detection goal distinguishes modern systems like Pitt ODS from CDC PulseNet?
Early warning/Anomaly detection before molecular matching
The primary distinction lies in the timing and methodology of detection. CDC PulseNet is focused on retrospective confirmation; it confirms links between cases after laboratory analysis, including DNA sequencing, is complete, which inherently introduces a latency measured in days or weeks. In contrast, modern automated systems such as the Pitt ODS aim for an early warning function. They utilize real-time monitoring of clinical data (EHRs) to flag unusual clustering or anomalies almost instantaneously, striving to detect the very start of a potential outbreak cluster *before* enough biological samples have been collected and sequenced to provide a conclusive molecular match. This shift moves the process from confirmation to near real-time anticipation.
