Pandemic migration
Pandemics such as COVID-19 can be more contagious in large cities for several reasons. As well as socioeconomic factors associated with quality of life, basic proximity factors can play a role in the spread of transmissible illnesses.
In urban settings, networks of buildings, crowded pavements and public transportation create conditions in which people often move in closer proximity to each other. During the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, many people were encouraged to work from home. The temporary shift to technology-based remote working opened up the possibility of a portion of the workforce permanently relocating away from urban settings.
This form of pandemic migration is being explored as a beneficial approach to dealing with the spread of highly-infectious illnesses.
The results of an October 2020 study conducted by Massimiliano Zanin and David Papo indicate that pandemic migration away from cities to less densely populated areas may help to reduce the spread of illnesses like COVID-19. In the study, Zanin and Papo simulated a forced migration that moved healthy people out of dense cities at the onset of a pandemic. The results showed that while movement from big cities to small towns might be slightly less safe for the people in small towns, overall, for a global pandemic situation, this reduction in the density of highly populated areas is better for the majority of people.
FInd out more at: https://aip.scitation.org/doi/10.1063/5.0028091
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Adapting your technology to the new working normal.
- Beyond the pandemic.
- Coronavirus and the construction industry.
- Defining the office.
- Hub and spoke model.
- Post pandemic places report.
- PwC CEO Panel survey.
- Wood and healthy office spaces.
[edit] External resources
- Massimiliano Zanin and David Papo, Travel restrictions during pandemics: A useful strategy?
Featured articles and news
Registered building inspectors
Building types and conflicts of interest updates explaineed.
Engineering services still struggle with labour shortages
According to latest quarterly services survey of the sector.
Infrastructure that connect the physical and digital domains.
Harnessing robotics and AI in challenging environments
The key to nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering.
BSRIA announces Lisa Ashworth as new CEO
Tasked with furthering BSRIA’s impressive growth ambitions.
Public buildings get half a million energy efficiency boost
£557 million to switch to cleaner heating and save on energy.
CIOB launches pre-election manifesto
Outlining potential future policies for the next government.
Grenfell Tower Inquiry announcement
Phase 2 hearings come to a close and the final report due in September.
Progress from Parts L, F and O: A whitepaper, one year on.
A replicated study to understand the opinion of practitioners.
ECA announces new president 2024
Electrical engineer and business leader Stuart Smith.
A distinct type of countryside that should be celebrated.
Should Part O be extended to existing buildings?
EAC brands heatwave adaptation a missed opportunity.
Definition of Statutory in workplace and facilities management
Established by IWFM, BESA, CIBSE and BSRIA.
Tackling the transition from traditional heating systems
59% lack the necessary information and confidence to switch.
The general election and the construction industry
As PM, Rishi Sunak announces July 4 date for an election.
Eco apprenticeships continue help grow green workforce
A year after being recognised at the King's coronation.