Last updated on October 2, 2025
No. International frameworks and national laws emphasise explicit consent, lawful basis, and data‑sharing agreements before genetic sequence data linked to individuals are shared between institutions. WHO guidance on sharing pathogen genetic sequence data stresses benefit‑sharing, governance safeguards, and respect for national legal frameworks; in the U.S., HIPAA and institutional review board (IRB) rules require de‑identification or specific patient authorisation for using identifiable genetic information. Routine cross‑institutional use of patient‑linked genetic sequences without consent is not permitted; research and public health uses require documented legal and ethical approvals, data‑use agreements, and minimisation measures. Institutions must consult national public health law and their legal/compliance offices for permitted pathways such as aggregated surveillance reporting or properly authorised research protocols.
9/19/2024