0
0
Christchurch, New Zealand – New Zealand researchers are at the forefront of utilizing advanced algorithms to enhance the management of bird flu and other significant biosecurity and epidemic threats. Spearheaded by Associate Professor Alex Gavryushkin of the University of Canterbury, the initiative aims to revolutionize response times to such crises through cutting-edge technology.
Gavryushkin, who is an Associate Professor of Data Science, is co-leading the development of these innovative algorithms. “Our algorithms can present a range of possible outbreak scenarios, rather than just the one that’s the most statistically plausible, as well as updating their predictions in real time,” Gavryushkin stated on Monday. This capability marks a significant advancement in the field of epidemiological modeling and biosecurity.
The technology, which incorporates Artificial Intelligence (AI), is designed to inform transmission tracking systems using both epidemiological and genetic data. This allows for real-time updates on the transmission and spread of diseases like Avian influenza. “With this new technology, results can be updated in real-time, revising previous calculations,” Gavryushkin explained, emphasizing the importance of this dynamic approach in safeguarding biosecurity-sensitive industries and livelihoods.
By deploying these advanced biosecurity algorithms, researchers can perform complex pre-computations early on, even before outbreaks start. This proactive stance ensures that New Zealand, with its small population and significant reliance on biology-rooted industries, is better prepared to prevent and manage biosecurity threats.
The collaborative project involves experts from several prestigious institutions, including the University of Auckland, Massey University, the University of Otago, and Environmental Science and Research. Together, they aim to apply powerful AI algorithms to support health, growth, and innovation within New Zealand’s economy and beyond.
This initiative, reported by Xinhua news agency, showcases New Zealand’s commitment to leveraging scientific advancements to address global health challenges, highlighting the potential of AI in transforming biosecurity and epidemic response strategies.
