Economics Webinar - Seeding Efficient Large-Scale Public Health Interventions in Diverse Spatial-Social Networks

We use a threshold spatial dynamic panel data model to study the selection of target locations for large-scale interventions in the presence of multilayer networks, regional differences, and feedback effects. Using the US COVID-19 vaccination rollout as a case study, we find peer effects of vaccination through a friendship network, COVID-19 transmission through a travel network, and various vaccination effect channels. Simulations show that targeting the most populated or spatially connected states is the most clinically effective whereas targeting socially influential states is the most cost-effectively. The framework can address societal challenges where social and spatial spillover effects are critical.