Researchers in the Coronavirus Working Group modeled the effectiveness of generalized and targeted non-pharmaceutical interventions to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Generalized policies include wearing face masks, hand washing, enhanced sick leave policies, limiting large gatherings, and other behavioral changes not involving intensive social distancing or shelter-in-place orders. Targeted methods include active case finding, contact tracing, immunity certification, and quarantine. Because non-pharmaceutical policies have disrupted local and state economies, understanding the effectiveness of less disruptive interventions to control SARS-CoV-2 is increasingly important. Researchers developed two modeling frameworks to determine which strategy was most effective. Results indicated that each strategy is efficacious. However, targeted strategies depend on extensive testing within a relatively limited range of conditions. Generalized methods including wearing a face mask and reduced densities were determined to significantly improve the effectiveness of targeted interventions. The preprint is available here.
© University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602