A new threshold reveals the uncertainty about the effect of school opening on diffusion of Covid-19.

Studies on the effects of school openings or closures during the Covid-19 pandemic seem to reach contrasting conclusions even in similar contexts. We aim at clarifying this controversy. A mathematical analysis of compartmental models with subpopulations has been conducted, starting from the SIR model, and progressively adding features modeling outbreaks or upsurge of variants, lockdowns, and vaccinations.

Mortality containment vs. Economics Opening: Optimal policies in a SEIARD model.

We extend the classic approach (SIR) to a SEAIRD model with policy controls. A social planner's objective reflects the trade-off between mortality reduction and GDP, featuring its perception of the value of statistical life (PVSL). We introduce realistic and drastic limitations to the control available to it.