ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Mathematical modelling of infectious disease

Mathematical modelling of infectious diseases is when we use equations and numbers to predict how an infection might spread in a population, like people in a city. It can help scientists to understand and control diseases like the flu or a virus like Covid-19. The models look at things like how many people have the disease, how quickly it’s spreading, and how likely it is to spread from person to person. By looking at all these factors, the model can help us know how best to slow down the spread and keep people safe.