The story of the R number: How an obscure epidemiological figure took over our lives. Part 3: Media.

This article discusses the emergence of the R number, or reproduction number, in the media and government communications during the COVID-19 pandemic. The R number represents the average number of people that an infected person will transmit the virus to. The article traces the first mentions of the R number in popular culture, such as the film Contagion, and its subsequent spread in the media. It also examines how the media reported on the R number and the challenges of accurately conveying its meaning. The article concludes by discussing the role of the R number in government communications and its significance in shaping public health policies. [Extracted from the article]