Modern Infectious Diseases: Macroeconomic Impacts and Policy Responses

We discuss and review literature on the macroeconomic effects of epidemics pandemics since late twentieth century. First, we cover role health in driving economic growth well-being standard frameworks for assessing burden infectious diseases. Second, sketch a general theoretical framework to evaluate trade-offs policy makers must consider when addressing diseases their repercussions. In so doing, emphasize dependence consequences (i) disease characteristics; (ii) inequalities among individuals terms susceptibility, preferences, income; (iii) cross-country heterogeneities institutional environments. Third, study pharmaceutical nonpharmaceutical policies aimed at mitigating preventing Fourth, toll impacts five diseases: HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, influenza, COVID-19. Although major can take an enormous human impose staggering burden, early targeted interventions often mitigate both substantial degree. (JEL E20, H50, I12, I14, I15, I18, J17)