An implementation of a multilayer network model for the Covid-19 pandemic: A Costa Rica study

Math Biosci Eng. 2023 Jan;20(1):534-551. doi: 10.3934/mbe.2023024. Epub 2022 Oct 12.

Abstract

We present a numerical implementation for a multilayer network to model the transmission of Covid-19 or other diseases with a similar transmission mechanism. The model incorporates different contact types between individuals (household, social and sporadic networks) and includes an SEIR type model for the transmission of the virus. The algorithm described in this paper includes the main ideas of the model used to give public health authorities an additional tool for the decision-making process in Costa Rica by simulating extensive possible scenarios and projections. We include two simulations: a study of the effect of restrictions on the transmission of the virus and a Costa Rica case study that was shared with the Costa Rican health authorities.

Keywords: Covid-19; epidemic models; multilayer network; pandemic.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Costa Rica / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Pandemics*