What to know
- The Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics supports a need for enhanced disease forecasting across the U.S.
- CFA works with partners to improve response to public health threats using disease forecasts, models, simulators, and reports.
Our mission
CFA harnesses cutting-edge analytics to improve response to public health emergencies. The center is advancing forecasting and outbreak analytics through predicting, informing, and innovating. We are creating disease forecasts, models, and simulator tools for public health decision makers to better prepare and respond to outbreaks Our vision is to empower people to save lives and protect communities from health threats.
Goals
CFA supports innovation to improve the science of disease outbreak analytics and modeling by:
- Producing data-driven models, forecasts, and simulator to predict the course of disease outbreaks.
- Informing decision-makers of potential consequences of outbreaks and public health responses.
- Supporting effective decision-making by providing real-time data, advanced scientific analytics and modeling tools, and risk communication products.
CFA staff work with partners in public, private, and academic sectors to advance our research and achieve our goals.
Predict
Deliver actionable analysis and response-ready modeling tools.
- Build an array of models and tools for outbreak analytics.
- Collaborate with public health programs to apply CFA's models and community tools.
- Test, evaluate, and improve CFA's modeling and data sources.
- Provide analysis for urgent response needs.
Inform
Generate practical decision support products.
- Share technical reports with actionable insights for decision-makers.
- Translate and circulate CFA-developed analytics and models.
- Establish and maintain collaborations to improve CFA techniques.
Innovate
Drive technological and analytic innovation.
- Transform forecasting, analytics, and communication.
- Advance analytic technology architectures for CFA and our partners.
- Establish technical specifications to support the flow of information.
Why it matters
CFA is a critical national security resource that makes the nation more response-ready through predictive decision-support tools and communication products. We work alongside state and local public health partners to provide forward-looking analytic outputs and co-develop tailored tools they can use to understand potential outbreak scenarios before they unfold. These efforts support preparedness planning, smarter resource allocation, and targeted action to help prevent costly disruptions to the American way of life.
Our work
In a few short years, CFA has supported the development of new disease modeling, forecasting, and simulation tools for 28 emerging outbreaks and respiratory virus responses. CDC have also awarded over $148 million in funding to academic, private and public institutions to advance modeling and forecasting strategies. In 2023, CFA launched Insight Net, the first national network for disease outbreak modeling and analytics, which includes more than 130 partners.
