An agent-based model for intervention planning among communities during epidemic outbreaks

Abstract

We developed an agent-based model containing 50 communities, replicating the 50 states of USA. The age distribution, approximate household size and the socio-structural determinants of each community were modeled based on the US Census. The agent-based model was validated using in-silico seroprevalence data collection. Medical seeking behavior of individuals was parameterized based on the socio-structural determinants of the community. The interventions proposed in literature were tested and the optimal intervention strategy to counter an epidemic outbreak has been identified. In addition, we included novel interventions like coordination among the communities and increasing the awareness of individuals in the lower ranked communities based on information exchange between communities. � Springer Science+Business Media Singapore 2016.