A new global initiative will use nuclear science to better manage pandemic threats, such as COVID-19.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has launched the Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action project, or ZODIAC. This will work to help countries control diseases that cross from animals to humans, and to respond quickly to any outbreaks.

Nuclear and nuclear-derived techniques are proven tools for detecting and understanding zoonotic diseases. They are currently being used to quickly and accurately test people for COVID-19 around the world.