Understanding how mass gatherings affect the spread of COVID-19 in U.S. communities
Mass gatherings as natural experiments: travel pulses reveal determinants of SARS-CoV-2 epidemic synchrony and predictability in U.S. states and counties
This study looks at how big events, like motorcycle rallies, might affect the spread of COVID-19 in different communities across the U.S., helping us understand how travel and community features can influence outbreaks so that public health officials can better prepare and respond.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10632138 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of mass gatherings, such as motorcycle rallies, on the spread of COVID-19 across different U.S. communities. By analyzing travel patterns and disease incidence, the study aims to identify factors that influence how communities respond to increased travel and potential outbreaks. The researchers will use statistical models to assess the relationship between community characteristics—like urban density and economic status—and the spread of the virus. The findings will be presented through interactive maps, providing valuable insights for public health planning and response.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in U.S. counties that have experienced significant travel from mass gatherings during the pandemic.
Not a fit: Patients living in areas that did not experience mass gatherings or significant travel-related outbreaks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help public health officials better predict and manage future epidemics, ultimately saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that analyzing travel patterns can provide insights into epidemic spread, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable findings.
Where this research is happening
Athens, United States
- University of Georgia — Athens, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rohani, Pejman — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Rohani, Pejman
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.