Detection and Warning Systems (Briefing Note n°6)

This briefing note is the sixth output of the COVID-19 Observatory.

In today’s world, as deconfinement is implemented in many countries, and our knowledge grows surrounding both the behaviour of SARS-CoV-2 and of the gaps in our understanding, alert systems have returned to the spotlight as a key way to ensure that response to the virus is effective and efficient (cost / effectiveness). Being able to identify the existence of a new threat as quickly as possible is key in simultaneously triggering an operational response and launching information gathering processes, essential in the gradual construction of countermeasures against this biomedical threat. This note addresses several challenges and opportunities for improving the early warning systems presently in use, notably by providing them with innovative mechanisms and tools.