Artificial Intelligence in Predicting Epidemics and Limiting Their Spread (Najat Hameed Jassim)

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The outbreak of modern epidemics, such as COVID-19, has highlighted the importance of using advanced technologies to address global health crises. Artificial intelligence (AI) plays an increasingly important role in monitoring and predicting infectious diseases by analyzing big data, behavioral patterns, and environmental factors. AI models rely on data from multiple sources, including social media networks, health records, geographic information systems (GPS), and even climate reports, to identify the likelihood of disease spread in a specific region. These technologies also enable real-time monitoring of cases and the strategic allocation of medical resources. During outbreaks such as COVID-19, AI was used to estimate future infection rates, design quarantine strategies, and analyze virus behavior in different environments. It also contributed to vaccine development by rapidly analyzing viral proteins at a speed far beyond traditional methods. This role is not limited to managing current epidemics but extends to predicting future outbreaks, enabling the design of early warning systems that alert health authorities before a crisis occurs. However, despite these capabilities, challenges remain regarding data accuracy, as well as concerns about privacy and surveillance. The success of these systems requires international cooperation, continuous updating of data and algorithms, and clear policies governing the use of AI in public health. Al-Mustaqbal University is the first one university in Iraq.