Social distancing could be necessary “until 2022,” say researchers

In a study published this afternoon, epidemiologists from Harvard University say that the Covid-19 pandemic could make intermittent social distancing measures a necessity for the next two years.

The study, published in Science magazine, attempts to map out the transmission dynamics of the Covid-19 virus by using other human coronaviruses and estimates on seasonality and immunity to provide potential epidemic scenarios.

It is likely, the researchers say, that immunity to the virus will only be temporary, as is the case with the common cold or seasonal flu. As a result, outbreaks may become annual or biennial, demanding the need for intermittent social distancing measures until a vaccine is found, or critical care capacity is “increased substantially.”

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