LEPRASIM: An Agent-based model for the spatio-temporal diffusion dynamics of leprosy.

Abstract

LEPRASIM, an Agent Based Model, is developed to gain a deeper understanding of the spatio-temporal diffusion dynamics of leprosy infections, the effect of agent-based behavioral mechanisms on this phenomenon, and the long-term effectiveness of prevention measures in reducing the occurrence of leprosy in a population. A set of eight prevention measures are tested aimed at different contact groups of infected individuals in the population. Of these strategies an initial deployment of a "blanket"-approach, followed by the deployment of a pre-emptive approach aimed at household and neighbor contacts of infected individuals, is considered to be most effective.