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A new secret computer program was able to identify the source of previously puzzling mysterious coronavirus cases in a move that is expected to bolster Victoria’s contact tracing system.
Used by state public health investigators since September, the Mystery Case Tracker is designed to reduce hours or even days from the time it takes to identify the source of new COVID-19 cases, limiting the threat of spreading outbreaks.
By taking the information provided during contact tracing interviews with all new cases, the computer program immediately builds a map of all their movements to compare against all known exposure sites, timelines and clusters.
It comes as Victoria recorded her 35th day of zero new coronavirus cases.
8784 tests were conducted in the past 24 hours. No new deaths were recorded.
Developed in-house by Department of Health epidemiologists and public health data experts, the Mystery Case Tracker is believed to be the first program in Australia to generate a digital diagram that maps links between cases, contacts and their movements.
Director of Investigation and Analysis Charles Alpren said the program was instrumental in identifying the source of at least two cases that had baffled investigators, helping to end the state’s second wave.
“It was really successful. It was very exciting when we started using the app, ”said Dr. Alpren.
“It allowed us to pinpoint where we needed to ask more questions or where we needed to be more certain of key events.
“We found things with Mystery Case Tracker that made us want to go and check that we weren’t missing anything else.
“This allows us to see the networks and see the broadcast, so we know exactly where we need to focus our efforts.”
During the sometimes exhaustive contact tracing interviews with COVID-19 cases, they are asked to remember all their movements and contacts up to 14 days in advance; the data is entered into the program to produce a map.
Although contact tracing still relies on people being honest and accurate in the information they provide, Dr. Alpren said the computer-generated mapping makes it faster and easier to see potential links to other cases or deadlines, suggesting additional questions. which can overcome some mysteries.
Health Minister Martin Foley said the Mystery Case Tracker has enhanced the contact tracking system and would help keep state operations open.
“Staying one step ahead of this incredibly infectious virus means continuing to advance our case and contact tracking systems to keep our community safe,” he said.
“Finding the connection between people, places and times is the key to investigating and managing outbreaks – the team has done an amazing job creating this new tool that allows these investigations to be carried out quickly and reliably.
“We all have a role to play in protecting ourselves and those we love from this virus, whether it’s the public health team that works around the clock, the cases that provide accurate information to help them do their jobs, or any Victorian that it is to stay home and get tested when they are sick – we thank you. “
Originally released as The Secret Weapon That Helps Solve Baffling Virus Cases
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