Assessing the Impact of Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions on Disease Infection in the Public Health Sector: A Hybrid Simulation Approach

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs), including the use of Cotton Fabric Masks and social distancing, on disease infections, such as COVID-19, and exposure rates within waiting areas of an emergency department. Employing a Multi-Agent Simulation approach, the research models patient flow, with each agent representing a physical entity governed by predefined attributes and rules. The objective is to assess the performance of preventive measures quantitatively based on agent proximity and exposure time. Findings indicate that facemask usage reduces infections, and both facemask adherence and social distancing contribute to lower infection rates. The study highlights the similarity in effect between social distancing and a 20% facemask adherence rate. Additionally, it underscores that as more agents adopt facemasks, the time needed for exposure increases. Waiting areas emerge as potential hotspots for transmission.