Basic Study on Scale-Free Networks and Targeted Antivirus Prophylaxis Supported by Information Communication Tools

Abstract

With the aim of slowing the spread of infectious disease in the earliest phase of an outbreak, we performed visual simulations using scale-free networks focused on circumstances such as “normal” daily life, pandemic outbreaks, and the Fukushima nuclear accident following the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011. Due to limitations associated with face-to-face contacts and delays in the timing of intake of iodine tablets, iodine preparations for protecting the thyroid gland could be taken effectively by only 5% of the population in the aftermath of the Fukushima nuclear accident. For targeted antivirus prophylaxis (TAP) to be more effective, timing of the distribution of anti-viral medication needs to be planned well in advance and instructions to “take it now!” must be communicated effectively in a timely manner. The results of this study suggest that information communication technology (e.g., pulse oximeters, mobile phones) can play an important role in managing TAP policies.