Episode 7: Modelling COVID-19: Can we predict the future?

In an island-continent like Australia, with a population of almost 26 million, how is the coronavirus likely to spread? And how can transmission be halted? In this episode, you’ll meet Burnet Institute’s Deputy Director, Professor Margaret Hellard and Dr Nick Scott, the Head of Modelling. They are part of the team behind the Victorian adaptation of the COVASIM Epidemic model, which was first developed by the Institute for Disease Modelling in the USA. Hear how modelling helps prepare our health system and governments for the likelihood of the virus spreading in the future and the risks around that. It’s what informs intervention strategies like international air travel, lockdowns, social distancing, density limits on cafés and restaurants, and homeschooling.

Get the transcript here.

Credits: Hosted by journalist Tracy Parish and Professor Brendan Crabb, a microbiologist, malaria researcher, and one of the best minds in infectious diseases and global health today.

Produced by Written & Recorded

Executive Producers: Serpil Senelmis & James Brandis

Sound Design/Engineering: James Brandis

Production Assistance: Nick Dalziel, Burnet Institute

How Science Matters was recorded on the traditional land of the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nations and we offer our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect the cultural heritage of this land.

Disclaimer: This podcast series was recorded between June and July 2021. For current information on the pandemic, please search for the latest official coronavirus advice in your area.

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