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Artificial intelligence is transforming disease surveillance, but governance is failing to keep pace

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming disease surveillance by enabling early outbreak detection, predictive modeling, and real-time analysis of diverse health data sources. These advances can strengthen epidemic preparedness and improve public health decision-making. However, AI adoption has progressed faster than the development of effective governance frameworks, creating challenges related to algorithmic bias, transparency, privacy, cybersecurity, accountability, and global equity. Low- and middle-income countries face additional barriers due to limited digital infrastructure and technical capacity. This policy brief highlights the urgent need for responsible AI governance through international standards, explainable algorithms, independent validation, strong data protection, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. Ensuring ethical and equitable AI implementation is essential to maximize its potential for improving disease surveillance and global health security.

Source: Frontiers in Digital Health

DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2026.1939009

Authors: Abdullahi Osman Mohamed, Abdifatah Afyare, Abdinasir Mohamed Abdi, Yusuf Hassan Muhumed, Mohamed Adam Abdihashi

Institutions: Somali National University, Salaam University

Language: English

Topic: Ethics and Social Impacts of AI

Subfield: Artificial Intelligence

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Partnerships for the goals, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,077