AI will promote data analysis, disease surveillance – NCDC, WHO

Public health experts have revealed the critical role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing data collection and analysis for disease surveillance during the 5th Annual Disease Surveillance Review Meeting held by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) in Lagos.

The three-day conference, which commenced on Monday, October 28, is themed “Strengthening Global Health Security through Enhanced Surveillance.”

During the meeting, specialists emphasized the necessity of leveraging diverse data sources—including social media and health facilities—to monitor disease trends and improve public health responses.

Dr. Jide Idris, the Director-General of NCDC, highlighted the vulnerabilities exposed by recent public health crises, which include Ebola, COVID-19, measles, cholera, and Lassa fever.

He pointed out that these challenges have revealed significant gaps in resources, data systems, and human capacity.

“We stand on the frontlines against an array of threats—both familiar and new,” Dr. Idris stated.

He noted the ongoing cholera outbreak, exacerbated by devastating floods, as an example of the urgent need for improved public health infrastructure.

“The increasing data from these public health threats are not just statistics; they are stories of families, communities, and individuals whose lives hang in the balance,” he added.

Dr. Idris expressed concern over delays in data transmission, inconsistencies in data quality, and prolonged laboratory turnaround times, which hinder the NCDC’s ability to respond swiftly to health threats.

However, he reaffirmed the center’s commitment to safeguarding public health in Nigeria.

He called for the integration of new technologies such as electronic Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) systems and advanced diagnostic tools into Nigeria’s health security framework. “As pathogens evolve, so must our responses,” he asserted, urging a paradigm shift in public health strategies to stay ahead of emerging threats.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of disease surveillance and preparedness in a post-pandemic world.

He noted the need for continuous vigilance and the adoption of technology to enhance public health outcomes.

Dr. Walter Mulombo, WHO Country Representative to Nigeria, reinforced the significance of AI in improving data analysis and decision-making processes at local and state levels. He emphasized the importance of adopting a One Health approach, integrating surveillance across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.

“We are no longer in the past century. There are new dimensions that call for different ways of thinking and investing in surveillance,” Mulombo stated.