Genomic epidemiology is a field of study that combines the principles of epidemiology with genetic analysis to understand disease outbreaks and patterns of disease transmission at the molecular level. By analyzing the genetic information of pathogens, researchers can track the spread of infectious diseases, identify sources of outbreaks, and determine how different strains of a pathogen are related to each other. This information can be used to inform public health interventions and control measures to prevent the spread of disease. Genomic epidemiology has become an increasingly powerful tool in the study of infectious diseases, allowing researchers to better understand the dynamics of disease transmission and make informed decisions to protect public health.