Lambda can be estimated using various methods, depending on the type of data available and the disease in question. Some common methods include:
1. Historical Data Analysis: Utilizing past incidence data to estimate the rate of new infections. 2. Serological Surveys: Measuring the proportion of the population with antibodies to estimate the force of infection over time. 3. Mathematical Models: Using compartmental models (e.g., SIR, SEIR) to fit observed data and estimate lambda. 4. Contact Tracing Data: Analyzing data from contact tracing to estimate transmission rates.
