RAPiD-VBP

Responsible AI for developing a Robust public health surveillance system: Early Detection and Prediction of Vector-borne Viral Zoonotic Pathogens

RAPiD-VBP

RAPiD-VBP is a multidisciplinary research initiative developing data-driven and responsible artificial intelligence tools to support early detection and prediction of vector-borne viral zoonotic diseases, with a focus on public health preparedness in Ghana and similar settings.

Vector-borne viral diseases pose an increasing threat to global health due to climate change, urbanization, and ecological disruption. RAPiD-VBP addresses this challenge by integrating artificial intelligence, field surveillance, and public health expertise to strengthen early warning systems and support evidence-based decision-making.

Why RAPiD-VBP Matters

Vector-borne viral zoonoses such as dengue, yellow fever, and other emerging pathogens continue to challenge public health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Delayed detection limits response capacity and increases the risk of outbreaks.

RAPiD-VBP aims to:

- Improve early detection of viral threats through enhanced surveillance

- Develop predictive models to support timely public health interventions

- Promote responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence in public health

- Strengthen local research capacity and cross-institutional collaboration

Key Focus Areas

- AI-Driven Surveillance: Applying machine learning to entomological, environmental, and epidemiological data

- Field Data Collection: Integrating vector surveillance and environmental monitoring

- Prediction & Risk Mapping: Supporting proactive public health responses

- Responsible AI: Ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI systems

- Capacity Building: Training researchers and public health

Background

Zoonotic diseases, which are transmitted from animals to humans, represent a growing challenge to global public health. Human expansion into wildlife habitats has intensified interactions between people and animals, increasing the likelihood of pathogen spillover. As a result, an estimated 60% of all human infectious diseases are zoonotic in origin.

More concerning, approximately 75% of emerging infectious diseases, including Ebola, HIV, and influenza viruses, originate from animal hosts. These trends highlight the critical importance of early detection, surveillance, and preparedness to prevent large-scale outbreaks and protect public health systems worldwide.