Redefining pandemic preparedness: Multidisciplinary insights from the CERP modelling workshop in infectious diseases, workshop report
Marta C. Nunes, Edward W. Thommes, Holger Fröhlich, Antoine Flahault, Julien Arino, Marc Baguelin, Matthew Biggerstaff, Gaston Bizel-Bizellot, Rebecca K. Borchering, Giacomo Cacciapaglia, Simon Cauchemez, Alex Barbier–Chebbah, Carsten Claussen, Christine Choirat, M Cojocaru, Catherine Commaille‐Chapus, Chitin Hon, Jude Dzevela Kong, Nicolas Lambert, Katharina B. Lauer, Thorsten Lehr, Cédric Mahé, Vincent Maréchal, Adel Mebarki, Seyed M. Moghadas, René Niehus, Lulla Opatowski, Francesco Parino, Gery Pruvost, Andreas Schuppert, Rodolphe Thiébaut, Andrea Thomas-Bachli, Cécile Viboud, Jianhong Wu, Pascal Crépey, Laurent Coudeville
Abstract
In July 2023, the Center of Excellence in Respiratory Pathogens organized a two-day workshop on infectious diseases modelling and the lessons learnt from the Covid-19 pandemic. This report summarizes the rich discussions that occurred during the workshop. The workshop participants discussed multisource data integration and highlighted the benefits of combining traditional surveillance with more novel data sources like mobility data, social media, and wastewater monitoring. Significant advancements were noted in the development of predictive models, with examples from various countries showcasing the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence in detecting and monitoring disease trends. The role of open collaboration between various stakeholders in modelling was stressed, advocating for the continuation of such partnerships beyond the pandemic. A major gap identified was the absence of a common international framework for data sharing, which is crucial for global pandemic preparedness. Overall, the workshop underscored the need for robust, adaptable modelling frameworks and the integration of different data sources and collaboration across sectors, as key elements in enhancing future pandemic response and preparedness.