Understanding how human movement affects disease spread and public health responses
Human mobility models to forecast disease dynamics and the effectiveness of public health interventions
This study looks at how people's travel habits affect the spread of diseases like COVID-19, with the goal of improving ways to predict and manage future outbreaks, so we can better protect everyone’s health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11059966 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how patterns of human mobility influence the transmission of infectious diseases, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing various data sources on human travel, the study aims to improve models that predict disease dynamics and the effectiveness of public health interventions. The approach includes validating existing models and exploring which mobility patterns are most relevant for different diseases. This could help in planning and responding to future outbreaks more effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas affected by infectious diseases, particularly those impacted by COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by infectious diseases or who live in regions with low disease transmission may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate predictions of disease spread and improved public health strategies, ultimately saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully used human mobility data to model disease transmission during influenza pandemics, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wesolowski, Amy — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Wesolowski, Amy
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.