Summary:
The book explores the science of contagion and the patterns behind how diseases, information, and trends spread through human populations. It delves into mathematical models and historical examples to explain the dynamics of transmission and the factors that can halt or amplify a contagion's reach.
Key points:
1. R0 Importance: Kucharski highlights R0, the average number of people one sick person can infect in a fully susceptible population. An R0 above 1 means the disease can spread widely. Understanding R0 is crucial for predicting and managing disease outbreaks.
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