Today, we’re exploring the crossroads of technology and health. If you haven’t heard of ChatGPT yet, you’re in for a surprise. This AI chatbot is gaining attention in the health community, and here’s why.
A study published in *Human Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics* tested ChatGPT with the top 50 most frequently asked COVID-19 vaccine questions, many based on myths and misinformation, like the vaccine causing Long Covid. ChatGPT achieved an impressive average score of nine out of 10 for accuracy!
While it’s not flawless (it sometimes omits some details), researchers at the GenPoB group at the Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS) believe ChatGPT can be a reliable source of easily understandable information for the public.
This development is particularly useful for people who don’t have advanced degrees in virology but still want to understand how vaccines work. Remember when the World Health Organization (WHO) identified vaccine hesitancy as a top global health threat in 2019? Much of that hesitancy stemmed from false information spread on social media.
ChatGPT helps by debunking myths and providing accurate information, potentially increasing vaccine acceptance. Antonio Salas, the study’s lead author and a professor at the University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, noted that ChatGPT presents information in a way that’s easy for the public to understand without sacrificing scientific accuracy.
However, Salas also emphasized that ChatGPT, while reliable, can’t replace expert advice or scientific evidence. Though user-friendly and broadly accessible, it has limitations. For example, if you ask the same question just a few seconds apart, you might get different responses.
Moreover, while ChatGPT aims to provide accurate answers, there’s a risk it could be trained to deliver information that doesn’t align with established scientific evidence. Therefore, it’s a brilliant tool but should be used wisely, and information should be cross-checked when in doubt.
The digital age offers numerous wonders, and ChatGPT is one of them. As we navigate the vast information landscape online, tools like ChatGPT can help separate fact from fiction, especially concerning health. However, while AI can be a valuable guide, consulting healthcare professionals for health-related decisions remains essential.
