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Efficient mask allocation during a pandemic

Author

Listed:
  • Wei-Cheng Chen

    (Academia Sinica)

  • Lin Chen

    (Vanderbilt University)

  • Yi-Cheng Kao

    (Chung Yuan Christian University)

Abstract

We analyze the allocation of face masks to minimize mortality during a pandemic through airborne transmission. When the initial distribution of masks is private information, the optimal allocation achieved by a sophisticated mechanism in most cases maximizes the coverage rate by incentivizing individuals who initially own a mask to reveal this information in exchange for a better chance to receive masks in the future. We propose a novel and simple mechanism, which reduces death by a sizable number compared with simple random assignment. Our simulation shows that, for low to medium early coverage rates, the new mechanism approximately attains the minimum mortality.

Suggested Citation

  • Wei-Cheng Chen & Lin Chen & Yi-Cheng Kao, 2024. "Efficient mask allocation during a pandemic," Review of Economic Design, Springer;Society for Economic Design, vol. 28(2), pages 275-311, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:reecde:v:28:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s10058-023-00340-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s10058-023-00340-y
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    COVID-19; Face masks; Medical rationing; Market design; SIR model;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D47 - Microeconomics - - Market Structure, Pricing, and Design - - - Market Design
    • D82 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Asymmetric and Private Information; Mechanism Design
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health

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