The Intelligent Infectious Disease Active Surveillance and early warning system in China: An application of dengue prevention and control

Abstract

Utilizing advanced information technologies such as big data and artificial intelligence (AI), China has established and implemented the Intelligent Infectious Disease Active Surveillance and Early Warning System. It provides new tools for the surveillance, early warning, and response to infectious diseases, enhancing the timeliness, scientific basis, and efficiency of epidemic control efforts. The system comprises four functional modules including multi-channel active surveillance, intelligent early warning, data-driven risk assessment, and smart emergency response. This paper provides a detailed overview of the structure and functions of the Intelligent Infectious Disease Active Surveillance and Early Warning System in China, with a specific focus on its application in dengue prevention and control in Hainan Province from February to May 2024. Firstly, the system can proactively capture and integrate heterogeneous surveillance data from multiple sources. Based on these multi-channel data, users can select appropriate warning indicators and AI models to automatically trigger early warnings. Using vast amounts of surveillance data, the system can construct machine learning models to accurately assess the transmission risk of infectious diseases. In terms of emergency response, the system offers powerful tools for early diagnosis, smart epidemiological investigation, digital contact tracing, vaccine and drug development, and evaluation of intervention measures. This system facilitates early detection, reporting, and management of outbreaks, serving as a valuable reference for other countries and regions. Nevertheless, continuous efforts are needed to strengthen scientific research and multidisciplinary collaboration, establish reliable data collection mechanisms, enhance continuous model monitoring and adjustments, and leverage the latest large language models. In the future, the system will be further optimized to help control emerging and major infectious diseases more effectively.