VERA explores the SIR model for the spread of COVID-19 and its relationship with healthcare capacity. The original SIR model (Kermak & McKenricj, 1927) is a commonly used mathematical model to understand the spread of infectious diseases. VERA adapts the SIR model to agent-based simulations.

We hope to show just how important adjusting behavior can be in shaping the outcome of a pandemic. The strain on the healthcare infrastructure has sweeping consequences—reduced availability of resources prevents some people from receiving adequate treatment, and even those with conditions other than COVID-19 will still see negative impacts as these resources become scarcer.

With VERA, explore the parameter values, such as average contacts per day per person, and see for yourself the flattening of the curve.