1. Predicting Diseases and Outbreaks

AI is being used to develop early warning systems for disease outbreaks. By analysing large datasets of health information, AI algorithms can identify patterns and predict potential outbreaks before they occur. This allows authorities to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of disease and protect public health.

One example of this is the AI-powered survey system developed by Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science. This system analyses data from online surveys and social media to identify potential outbreaks of infectious diseases. By providing early warnings, this system can help authorities take swift action to contain outbreaks and minimise their impact.

2. Supporting Healthcare Systems

AI is also being used to support healthcare systems and improve patient care. AI-powered virtual assistants can help healthcare organisations manage the influx of calls and questions, freeing up human staff to focus on more critical tasks. These virtual assistants can provide patients with accurate and up-to-date information about their health concerns, helping them make informed decisions about their care.

For example, Hyro is a free COVID-19 virtual assistant that is being offered to healthcare organisations to help them manage the increased demand for information and support. Hyro can answer questions about COVID-19 symptoms, testing, and treatment, and can also help patients find reliable sources of information.

3. Fighting the Spread of Misinformation

The spread of misinformation online can have serious consequences, particularly during times of crisis. AI is being used to help combat the spread of misinformation by identifying and flagging false or misleading content. Social media platforms are increasingly relying on AI to moderate content and ensure that users are getting accurate information.

AI algorithms can analyse text, images, and videos to identify content that is likely to be false or misleading. This allows social media platforms to take action to remove or flag this content, helping to prevent the spread of misinformation and protect users from harm. 

4. Identifying Sick Patients and Providing Remote Care

AI is also being used to identify sick patients and provide remote care. In China, a computer vision algorithm has been developed to scan temperatures in public locations and identify individuals who may be showing symptoms of illness. This allows for early detection and isolation of potentially infected individuals, helping to prevent the spread of disease.

In Washington state, robots have been used to provide remote treatment and communication to COVID-19 patients. This helps to protect healthcare workers from exposure to the virus and allows patients to receive care without having to leave their homes.

The Future of AI in Safety

These are just a few examples of how AI is being used to make the world a safer place. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of AI in safety in the years to come. From self-driving cars to smart homes, AI has the potential to transform many aspects of our lives and make the world a safer and more secure place for everyone.