(1) To model a possible evolution of an epidemic in Germany including assumptions about importation and domestic spread using the present knowledge about the virus; (2) to quantify the potential impact of public health measures, such as case detection, case isolation, quarantine of contacts, and the use of antiviral medication for therapy and post exposure prophylaxis, with a given effectiveness, on the initial evolution of the epidemic; (3) to identify possible conditions, which -if known -favour the adaptation of measures or the termination of the control strategies.