Social Distancing's Effects on COVID-19: Roles of Timing and Adherence

Simulation modeling reveals that timing of social distancing measures has major effects on number of COVID-19 cases.

The effectiveness of social distancing measures on lowering COVID-19 case counts remains unknown. Investigators used cell phone mobility data to model complex social network interactions (taking into account population density, daily number of contacts per person without social distancing measures, and adherence to such measures) among individuals in three U.S. regions (Dane County, Wisconsin; Milwaukee metropolitan area; and New York City [NYC]; the population density of Milwaukee is roughly 3 times that of Dane County [home to Madison], and NYC's population density is roughly 20 times higher than Milwaukee's).

Timing of and adherence to locally imposed social distancing mandates had major influences on incidence of new COVID-19 cases. For …

Reviewing Author

Daniel D. Dressler, MD, MSc, MHM, FACP

Disclosures

RoyaltiesMcGraw-Hill; Elsevier

Editorial BoardsMedical Clinics of North America; Caribbean Medical Journal International Advisory Panel (2021–2026)

Daniel D. Dressler, MD, MSc, MHM, FACP

Disclosures

RoyaltiesMcGraw-Hill; Elsevier

Editorial BoardsMedical Clinics of North America; Caribbean Medical Journal International Advisory Panel (2021–2026)

Social Distancing's Effects on COVID-19: Roles of Timing and Adherence

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Reviewing Author