ArticleInternational journal of epidemiology2026
The impact of school-based mitigation measures on the transmission of respiratory pathogens: the case of SARS-CoV-2.
Article in International journal of epidemiology, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundSchool-based mitigation measures can curb transmission of severe respiratory pathogens but may also impose high societal costs. Understanding their impact at the population level is key for pandemic preparedness evaluations.
methodsWe developed an individual-based model of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in households, schools, and the general community, calibrated to epidemiological estimates from complete contact tracing data collected in the province of Reggio Emilia, Italy, during March-April 2021 (a period characterized by the dominance of the Alpha variant and strict community restrictions). We quantified the impact of school-based mitigation measures, including distance-learning mandates, reactive class quarantines, and periodic screening.
resultsUnmitigated transmission in schools would increase the population-level SARS-CoV-2 reproduction number from 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84-1.03) to 1.38 (95% CI: 1.29-1.47), substantially amplifying COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. Intensive contact tracing with reactive class quarantines would reduce disease burden but would be insufficient to prevent widespread epidemic growth. Weekly universal screening of students and teachers with highly specific rapid tests, on top of contact tracing and reactive class quarantines, could effectively reduce the spread of infections and maintain a high level of in-person education.
conclusionsFor highly transmissible severe respiratory infection with significant cryptic transmission, distance learning mandates may be necessary to protect vulnerable populations. However, weekly screening in schools may offer a viable strategy to preserve in-person education.
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