The tool contains 11 criteria for determining if an outbreak is of unnatural origin, the researchers said.

Generally, the researchers said, natural epidemics feature paths of transmission which are typical for the pathogen and its natural hosts.

The tool, according to the researchers, also assesses these factors to determine if a pathogen is lab-made or natural.

If the tool reveals a score of less than 30 points, out of 60 possible points, they said, the outbreak could be of natural cause.

However, the researchers cautioned that the findings simply flag unusual patterns in an outbreak, but do not prove unnatural origin. | To read full story, visit https://startuparound.com/read/1585299606.290674/Coronavirus:-Researchers-develop-tool-to-help-determine-if-epidemic-is-natural-or-manmade?ref=audio_experience