COVID-19 Emergency Public Health and Economic Measures Causal Loops: A Computable Framework

Abstract

Transmission of COVID-19 follows dynamic patterns as it impacts society. A system thinking approach can be used to better understand multiple interacting factors and poorly assessed associated impacts. Building upon the work of others, we have extended the use of Causal Loop Diagrams (CLD) for whole system qualitative analysis of the linkages and interactions between the contagion component of COVID-19, and the healthcare and the economic components. Lockdown, widely used around the world to control the spread of COVID-19, appears to be the link between the contagion, health, and economic components. The approach used is generic and can easily be contextualized for both developing and developed countries.

Note: Funding: None to declare

Declaration of Interest: None to declare

Keywords: contagion, healthcare, economy, holistic, system thinking, reinforcing and balancing, causal loop diagram (CLD), systems research