Contact Matrix

Contact matrices represent the frequency of interactions between different population subgroups, serving as crucial inputs for epidemiological models predicting disease spread. Current research focuses on developing efficient methods for constructing these matrices, including mixed-method approaches combining surveys with agent-based modeling to address data limitations, particularly in underserved populations. These improved methodologies are vital for enhancing the accuracy and applicability of infectious disease models, informing public health interventions and resource allocation. Furthermore, the concept of contact matrices extends beyond epidemiology, finding applications in robotics and multibody dynamics simulations where efficient algorithms are being developed to handle complex interactions.