Reviewing the Reproduction Number R in Covid-19 Models

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/pom.2022.78

Keywords:

Epidemiological models, Covid-19, reproduction number

Abstract

Most of the epidemiological models of the Covid-19 pandemic contain the reproduction number (R) as a parameter. In this article we focus on some shortcomings regarding its role in driving health policies and political decisions. First, we summarize what R is and what it is used for. Second, we introduce a three-question matrix for the evaluation of any construct or parameter within a model. We then review the main literature about R to highlight some of its shortcomings and apply to them our three-question matrix. Finally, we argue that these shortcomings are important for an epistemic and political evaluation of R.

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Published

2022-04-26

How to Cite

Amoretti, M. C., & Lalumera, E. (2022). Reviewing the Reproduction Number R in Covid-19 Models. Philosophy of Medicine, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.5195/pom.2022.78

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 1 (2022)

Section

Philosophical Perspectives on Covid-19

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