University of Tartu researchers have been good advisors to the state and society during the coronavirus pandemic. The Scientific Advisory Board comprising our researchers has helped manage the crisis by advising the government. We carry out research to help predict the emergence of new outbreaks early on, assess the prevalence of coronavirus in the population and identify new virus strains. We also help to recognise the impact of the pandemic in other areas of life and provide ways to cope with it.
The University of Tartu has developed a wastewater monitoring methodology that enables the Health Board to get an overview of the spread of the coronavirus in different regions of Estonia on a weekly basis. The study makes it possible to identify new outbreaks in good time and to assess the spread of different virus strains.
In a cross-sectional study, the researchers of the University of Tartu ascertain the actual prevalence of the coronavirus and the progress of the epidemic in Estonia. Based on a random statistical sample, people are interviewed and tested across Estonia to give the state evidence-based data for making decisions about the measures to curb the spread of the virus.