Role of Data Science in Understanding the COVID-19 Crisis!

• By Jagmeet Kaur

• 10th June 2020

As the world is fighting its worst battle, data scientists work their fingers to the bone to understand the science behind COVID-19. In this technological era, data science can play an essential role in preventing the onset of pandemics. Data scientists can use their skills and give their best shot to develop technology to deal with the crisis. Data science is the bright light in the dark, which helps educate and empower those on the ground about the situations and help reduce the impact of COVID-19.

Epidemics and pandemics have threatened the human race in the past as well. But, with each outbreak, we learn new ways of fighting and managing the unknown diseases that can eradicate the human race. And, all this is possible because of technology and data science. With the rise in COVID-19 cases, people are feeling helpless and scared and look up to technology for some respite. Data science provides glimmers of hope to people to deal with the unknown virus.

At present, the field of data science is gaining a lot of attention from across the globe. People at the helm of affairs have realized its potential in dealing with the current crisis. Data science, AI, and machine learning communities publish data that are of immense help to front line doctors. In this blog, we will talk about how data science offers a modern approach to combat the COVID-19 crisis faced but the entire human race.
Data Science and COVID-19 pandemic

When we hear the word medical emergency, the only thing that comes into mind is the health care professionals. How can data scientists a white-collar job, working from the comforts of their home, repair the unprecedented loss of a human tribe? To answer this question, we first have to understand how data scientists work. Data scientists use available genomic data to understand the reactions of various kinds of drugs and their effect on the deadly disease. From giving accurate information to increasing transparency by sharing data, data science can contribute a lot amidst the current situation. Here we have enlisted some essential facts about how data science can help during COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Gives an accurate picture of coronavirus outcome:

In the fight against COVID-19, front line workers and doctors rely on the correct and up-to-date information. This is where data science comes to the rescue. Many IT firms, including IBM and Tableau and organizations like Johns Hopkins University, have created an interactive database that offers a real-time view of what’s happening with the virus. Any misinformation about the number of fatalities, diagnosis, and treatment options can make the situation worse and create panic amongst the general public. The result of this information can be more fatal than the virus itself. Widespread chaos, panic buying, hoarding of essential commodities are some of the outcomes of the spread of incorrect information. To overcome such situations, organizations like Google, Facebook, and YouTube work tirelessly to provide the right information to people. Correct information creates a transparent scenario informing people about the proper steps to follow to prevent the spread of the virus. Data scientists help in creating a database about the number of confirmed cases, fatalities, and recoveries.

Data science helps in contact tracing:

Contact tracing plays an essential role in reducing the spread of COVID-19. In contact tracing, we get in touch with individuals who have tested positive for the virus and ask them to self-isolate. Contact tracing can time-consuming; this is where data scientists can help front line doctors. Data scientists help in creating mobile phone-based solutions to overcome the less efficient traditional methods of contact tracing. In such situations, mobile-based IT solutions can be a real savior. Given the market penetration of phones and the extensive usage, using mobile-based solutions for contact tracing makes more sense.

Contribute in search of drugs:

In the morning, when waking up, the first thing we do is look at the news in the hope of a vaccine. While the world is in desperate need of a vaccine, it may take time for doctors to come up with a magic formula. To speed up the process, technology plays an essential. Data scientists suggest components of a vaccine by understanding the viral protein structures. Scientists have created AI tools, shared data sets, and research results to support vaccines’ search.

Track people with facial recognition:

In the present pandemic, big data analytics can help identify infected individuals. Facial recognition technology, along with data, can accurately identify people even if they are wearing masks. Facial recognition technology helps in monitoring movement and keeps track of people even when they are quarantined. Big data also helps in keeping a tab on people and determine if they come into contact with an infected person.

 You can play a part in fighting coronavirus:

Many developers have created an app that makes use of data sharing to support medical experts in learning more about the virus. People can contribute their bit by adding their data in the app, like their age, postal code, plus disclose their pre-existing condition. This information will help medical professionals in determining groups that are most affected or at risk.

Data scientists play an essential role in learning more about the virus and contribute towards a safer and better world.