A new app bot has been launched to give netizens access to accurate Covid-19 information in the fight against fake news.
The AI-powered "Chat Sure" app is the result of a collaboration between the Health Ministry, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (THPF), Facebook Thailand, Hbot Co, the International Health Policy Program and the National Vaccine Institute.
Sathit Pitutecha, deputy minister of Public Health and first vice-chairman of THPF, said the new AI chatbot was initiated in collaboration with Facebook to help authorities combat the increasing prevalence of fake news during the Covid-19 crisis.
"With this method, the public can get accurate information via THPF's chatbot system," he said.
THPF manager Supreeda Aduyanon said the platform has been programmed to use simple language so it can be understood easily.
As of now, netizens can inquire about 200 topics from four main categories -- the virus itself, vaccines, medical services and mental health. The system will also be programmed to answer questions on a further 200-400 topics later on, he said.
Michael Bak, head of public policy at Facebook Thailand, said there are over 60 million domestic users who the Public Health Ministry and other agencies will now be better able to serve.
He also made a point highlighting the cost efficiency of the project as he hopes it will reduce the manpower needs of his online social welfare team who currently have to answer each question or inquiry individually.
For further information, people can access www.facebook.com/socialmarketingth
