A simulation model for Lyme disease policy analysis

What is it about?

e have used a system dynamics (SD) approach to develop a simulation tool to evaluate the significance of risk factors in replicating historical trends of LD cases, and to investigate the influence of different interventions, such as increasing awareness, controlling clothing risk and reducing mouse populations, in reducing LD risk. The model accurately replicates the historical trends of LD cases. Among several interventions tested using the simulation model, increasing public awareness most significantly reduces the number of LD cases.

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Why is it important?

This model provides recommendations for LD prevention, including further educational programs to raise awareness and control behavioral risk. This model has the potential to be used by the public health community to assess the risk of exposure to LD.