Using AI to predict and reduce RSV infections in rural areas
Official title: Integrating AI nowcasting models with digital communications to reduce RSV infections in rural areas
Funded at Social Cascade, LLC · NIH-11069443 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how we can use technology to predict RSV infection rates in rural areas and share helpful health information through social media, with the help of local doctors, to encourage more people to get vaccinated and stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Social Cascade, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Raleigh, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $378,893 |
| NIH project number | 1R43NR021380-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11069443 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children living in rural areas who are at risk for RSV infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients living in urban areas or those who are not at risk for RSV infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to leverage artificial intelligence to develop models that can predict respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection rates in rural communities. By integrating these predictive models with digital communication strategies, the project seeks to enhance community engagement and deliver timely health messages tailored to specific populations. The approach involves utilizing trusted community figures, such as pediatricians, to disseminate accurate health information through popular social media platforms. This method addresses the challenges of reaching hard-to-access residents and aims to improve vaccination acceptance and health promotion efforts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce RSV infections in rural areas, leading to better health outcomes for children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using AI and digital communication to improve health outcomes, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Social Cascade, LLC
Raleigh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcquiggan, Scott — Social Cascade, LLC
- Study coordinator: Mcquiggan, Scott
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.