Computer simulation suggests mutant strains of COVID-19 emerged in response to human behavior

Using artificial intelligence technology and mathematical modeling, a research group led by Nagoya University has revealed that human behavior, such as lockdowns and isolation measures, affects the evolution of new strains of COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, developed to become more transmissible earlier in its lifecycle. The researchers’ findings, published in Nature Communications, provide new insights into the relationship between how people behave and disease-causing agents.