In an interview on the Santa Fe Radio Café, Omidyar Fellow Sam Scarpino explains how mathematical epidemiologists can help slow the spread of the Ebola virus by mapping its patterns of transmission.

“The mathematical models we’re developing are primarily designed to better understand transmission routes, the likely role of interventions, and to guide public health decisions,” Scarpino tells host Mary-Charlotte Domandi.

He discusses the role of poverty in Ebola transmission, and the importance of contact tracing and gathering genomic data. Finally, Scarpino explains how the lessons of Ebola might aid in controlling diseases that Americans have a greater risk of contracting.

Listen to the interview on the Santa Fe Radio Café (December 10, 2014)