,

An essay in the latest issue of the science journal Nature lays out the case for using a new mapping technology to predict the spread of disease and shape responses to curb its spread.

In his opinion piece, titled Modelling to Contain Pandemics, Joshua M. Epstein argues that “computational modelling is playing a central part in mapping the disease’s possible spread, and designing policies for its mitigation.”

In the essay, which appears in the Aug. 6, 2009 issue, Epstein cites The National Center for the Study of Preparedness and Catastrophic Event Response at Johns Hopkins University (PACER) as one institution using the technology to model emergency surge capacity in a pandemic.

To read the essay visit: http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v460/n7256/