Journal Article
Improving Epidemic Modeling with Networks
Craig, Ben R.; Steinberg, Jared; Siedlarek, Jan-Peter; Phelan, Tom (2020-09-02)
Many of the models used to track, forecast, and inform the response to epidemics such as COVID-19 assume that everyone has an equal chance of encountering those who are infected with a disease. But this assumption does not reflect the fact that individuals interact mostly within much narrower groups. We argue that incorporating a network perspective, which accounts for patterns of real-world interactions, into epidemiological models provides useful insights into the spread of infectious diseases.
Economic Commentary , Volume 2020 , Issue 23 , Pages 8

Journal Article
Two Approaches to Predicting the Path of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Is One Better?
Craig, Ben R.; Steinberg, Jared; Siedlarek, Jan-Peter; Phelan, Tom (2021-04-08)
We compare two types of models used to predict the spread of the coronavirus, both of which have been used by government officials and agencies. We describe the nature of the difference between the two approaches and their advantages and limitations. We compare examples of each type of model—the University of Washington IHME or “Murray” model, which follows a curve-fitting approach, and the Ohio State University model, which follows a structural approach.
Economic Commentary , Volume 2021 , Issue 10 , Pages 8