Resource Allocation for Epidemic Control in Metapopulations
Author Information
Author(s): Ndeffo Mbah Martial L., Gilligan Christopher A.
Primary Institution: Yale School of Public Health, Yale University
Hypothesis
How can limited resources be optimally deployed to control infectious disease outbreaks in interconnected regions?
Conclusion
The study identifies a switching strategy for resource allocation that minimizes the number of infected individuals during epidemics.
Supporting Evidence
- The study shows that preferential treatment of less infected regions can effectively reduce the overall infection burden.
- Numerical simulations indicate that a single switch strategy is the most efficient for resource allocation.
- The findings suggest that social equity should be considered alongside efficiency in resource allocation strategies.
Takeaway
When there's an outbreak, it's important to decide how to use limited resources wisely. This study shows that sometimes it's better to help areas with fewer infections first to stop the disease from spreading.
Methodology
The study uses optimization methods from economic theory combined with a metapopulation model to derive criteria for optimal resource allocation.
Potential Biases
The strategies may be socially inequitable, as not all infected individuals may have equal access to treatment.
Limitations
The optimal switching strategy is difficult to implement due to uncertainties in epidemiological parameters and initial infection levels.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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