Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2009.0471
Title: How necessary is a fast testkit for mitigation of pandemic flu?
Authors: Chin, J.
Koh, G.
Lee, D.-Y. 
Keywords: Fast testkit
Intervention policy
Pandemic outbreak
Simulation
Stochastic agent-based model
Issue Date: 6-Jul-2010
Citation: Chin, J., Koh, G., Lee, D.-Y. (2010-07-06). How necessary is a fast testkit for mitigation of pandemic flu?. Journal of the Royal Society Interface 7 (48) : 1033-1047. ScholarBank@NUS Repository. https://doi.org/10.1098/rsif.2009.0471
Abstract: It is widely feared that a novel, highly pathogenic, human transmissible influenza virus may evolve that could cause the next global pandemic. Mitigating the spread of such an influenza pandemic would require not only the timely administration of antiviral drugs to those infected, but also the implementation of suitable intervention policies for stunting the spread of the virus. Towards this end, mathematical modelling and simulation studies are crucial as they allow us to evaluate the predicted effectiveness of the various intervention policies before enforcing them. Diagnosis plays a vital role in the overall pandemic management framework by detecting and distinguishing the pathogenic strain from the less threatening seasonal strains and other influenza-like illnesses. This allows treatment and intervention to be deployed effectively, given limited antiviral supplies and other resources. However, the time required to design a fast and accurate testkit for novel strains may limit the role of diagnosis. Herein, we aim to investigate the cost and effectiveness of different diagnostic methods using a stochastic agent-based city-scale model, and then address the issue of whether conventional testing approaches, when used with appropriate intervention policies, can be as effective as fast testkits in containing a pandemic outbreak. We found that for mitigation purposes, fast and accurate testkits are not necessary as long as sufficient medication is given, and are generally recommended only when used with extensive contact tracing and prophylaxis. Additionally, in the event of insufficient medication and fast testkits, the use of slower, conventional testkits together with proper isolation policies while waiting for the diagnostic results can be an equally effective substitute. © 2009 The Royal Society.
Source Title: Journal of the Royal Society Interface
URI: http://scholarbank.nus.edu.sg/handle/10635/64039
ISSN: 17425689
DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2009.0471
Appears in Collections:Staff Publications

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