Cost-Effective Strategies for Mitigating a Future Influenza Pandemic with H1N1 2009 Characteristics
Author Information
Author(s): Nilimesh Halder, Joel K. Kelso, George J. Milne
Primary Institution: School of Computer Science and Software Engineering, University of Western Australia
Hypothesis
What are the most cost-effective strategies for mitigating a future pandemic with H1N1 2009 characteristics?
Conclusion
The most cost-effective strategies involve treatment and household prophylaxis using antiviral drugs combined with limited duration school closure.
Supporting Evidence
- The most cost-effective strategies cost between $632 and $777 per case averted.
- Limited duration school closure is significantly more cost-effective than continuous school closure.
- Antiviral drug strategies combined with limited school closure effectively reduce the illness attack rate.
Takeaway
This study looked at how to best spend money to stop a future flu pandemic like H1N1 2009, finding that using medicine and closing schools for a short time is the best way to save money and lives.
Methodology
An individual-based simulation model was used to analyze the cost-effectiveness of various pandemic intervention strategies based on health outcome data from the H1N1 2009 pandemic.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be applicable to populations in developing countries with different health care systems.
Participant Demographics
The study was based on a community in Australia with a population of approximately 30,000.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website