Applied Modeling Techniques and Data Analysis 2

9Some Remarks on the Coronavirus Pandemic in Europe

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was initially reported in China in late 2019 and rapidly spread across the world. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) characterized the situation as a global pandemic. By late April 2020, there were 2,475,440 confirmed cases and 170,069 deaths worldwide; 164,656 of the fatal cases were reported in Europe. In response to the pandemic, the primary objectives of European countries were: (1) to limit the spread of the virus, (2) to protect the most vulnerable and health workers and (3) to provide a clear quantification of the virus’s process. However, there are major inconsistencies between countries concerning the adoption of protocols and measures towards the above goals. The installation of measurements, such as restrictions on public gatherings, lockdowns, and the shutdown of educational institutions and workplaces, took place at different times and on different scales. In parallel, there are various issues and restrictions concerning the epidemiological data we possess thus far, a fact that hinders the study of this pandemic.

9.1. Introduction

Throughout its existence, humanity has encountered various plagues, epidemics and pandemics. It was by the late 20th century, and the adoption of modern virology and related disciplines, that we became able to track down and to analyze the menacing pathogens thoroughly. The three major worldwide influenza ...