Even though the word “outbreak” is now most associated with COVID-19, many parts of the world are still affected by outbreaks of other diseases. Particularly in Latin America, millions of people get infected with yellow fever, zika and dengue.
An international team of researchers will embark on a groundbreaking study to develop models that predict epidemics of these diseases and how to avert them in time. The main objective of the study is to create a systemic model of prediction of outbreaks, which has not been done before despite the causes and cycles of these diseases being well-known.
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Like its counterparts around the world, RIKEN, Japan’s top research institute, is learning to refocus its efforts on the coronavirus emergency. Scientists from many fields – not just the infectious disease experts – are starting to ponder the imponderable: how will the world look after the emergency passes?
“Today, when we look at the challenge of coronavirus, we have to find a way to rebuild,” says Yuko Harayama, RIKEN’s director for international affairs, communication and diversity.
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