Around New England

Connecticut Data Firm Says Social Distancing Is Saving Lives – Numbers Depend on Coronavirus Models

April 28, 2020

Social distancing has had a positive impact on Connecticut, according to a recent report.

Data Haven, a data analytics firm based in New Haven, projects that the Nutmeg State has saved 10,000 lives already with the precautions it has in place and will likely end up saving around 6,000 more. In total, that means it will end up saving about 16,000 lives, by the company’s projections.

The calculations on saving lives are based on public health models, and depend on their accuracy.

It’s clear to Data Haven that people are travelling less, however – according to a company statement, cell phone data shows that Connecticut residents average travelling 4.7 miles on March 12, but that number fell to less than a half mile on March 23.

According to Patch, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont put forth restrictions on non-essential gatherings and travel on March 16, and a “Stay Safe, Stay Home” executive order on March 23.

When Lamont issued that order, he said, “I know that this will be disruptive to many and will bring many daily activities to a halt, but the only way we will be able to mitigate the impacts of this public health emergency is to take measures like this.”