Using Data Science to Better Understand COVID-19

I was interviewed by Dr. Steven Wexner, MD, for the American College of Surgeons as part of their "From the Frontlines" interview series.

We discussed various issues, including

• the idea of "wartime science"

• balancing the need to keep viral spread under control vs. keeping society functioning as normal as possible

• what we've learned about how SARS-CoV-2 spreads

• what this implies for our mitigation strategies, including mask-wearing

• how to identify outbreaks as they emerge using available public data

• a little bit about the PolicyLab modeling and county-level projections and how they help identify counties at risk for surge

• discussion of role of media and government officials, and how scientists can contribute to getting clear, accurate messages to the public

• having a balanced message, mindful of avoiding extremes of denial and alarmism.

Here is a link to the interview.