And several decades ago, we also examined these data and methods, also aimed at epidemics, that aimed at doing this and bioterror as well. We did not have all the methods or computing of today, but could have done lots with what we had. Was always surprised that it was not taken further. Please do that now.
AI could help with the next pandemic—but not with this one
Some things need to change if we want AI to be useful next time, and you might not like them.
by Will Douglas Heaven
It was an AI that first saw it coming, or so the story goes. On December 30, an artificial-intelligence company called BlueDot, which uses machine learning to monitor outbreaks of infectious diseases around the world, alerted clients—including various governments, hospitals, and businesses—to an unusual bump in pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China. It would be another nine days before the World Health Organization officially flagged what we’ve all come to know as Covid-19.
BlueDot wasn’t alone. An automated service called HealthMap at Boston Children’s Hospital also caught those first signs. As did a model run by Metabiota, based in San Francisco. That AI could spot an outbreak on the other side of the world is pretty amazing, and early warnings save lives.
This story is part of our coverage of the coronavirus/Covid-19 outbreak, all of which is available for free. You can also sign up for our coronavirus newsletter. .... "
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