The (Structural) Gravity of Epidemics

Alejandro Cunat, Robert Zymek

Research output: Working paperDiscussion paper

Abstract

Epidemiological models assume gravity-like interactions of individuals across space without microfoundations. We combine a simple epidemiological framework with a dynamic model of individual location choice. The model predicts that flows of people across space obey a structural gravity equation. By means of an application to data from Great Britain we show that our structural-gravity framework: provides a rationale for quarantines; offers a clear mapping from observed geography to the spread of a disease; and makes it possible to evaluate the welfare impact of (expected and unexpected) mobility restrictions in the face of a deadly epidemic.
Original languageEnglish
PublisherCEPR Covid Economics
Pages153-173
Number of pages21
Volume17
Publication statusPublished - 9 May 2020

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  • NBER Summer Institute 2020

    Robert Zymek (Speaker)

    8 Jul 2020

    Activity: Participating in or organising an event typesParticipation in conference

  • Economics of Covid-19

    Robert Zymek (Organiser)

    16 Jun 2020

    Activity: Participating in or organising an event typesParticipation in conference

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