ORAHS2025
Abstract Submission

99. Simulation and Optimization Approaches for Pandemic Response: EpiMORPH

Invited abstract in session TD-2: System dynamics, stream Sessions.

Tuesday, 15:30-17:00
Room: NTNU, Realfagbygget R8

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Esma Gel
College of Business, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
2. Sanjay Mehrotra
Industrial Engineering, Northwestern University
3. Joseph Mihaljevic
Northern Arizona University

Abstract

Epidemiological modeling is a critical tool for understanding the dynamics of pathogen transmission and predicting future outcomes, supporting public health responses. While illustrating the power of modeling in epidemic management, SARS-CoV-2 also highlighted inefficiencies in current modeling practices, with myriad models of varying assumptions, approaches, and quality flooding public forums. One of the main issues is that modeling studies and software are so customized that scientists must often start from scratch to create model-based technologies that address new pathogens or that seek to understand transmission dynamics in new locations. Moving epidemiological modeling from a collection of independent studies towards a more efficient, consensus-building endeavor will require the innovation of tools that accelerate the construction and testing of models, and that facilitates rigorous model comparison. This talk introduces EpiMoRPH (Epidemiological Modeling Resources for Public Health), a groundbreaking tool for advancing epidemiological modeling. It provides a robust framework for rapid model development and evaluation, promoting deeper understanding of epidemic dynamics. EpiMoRPH features an advanced optimization toolkit, empowering public health practitioners to make informed decisions on intervention placements and strategies. We will focus on the latest components of the tool, including its system dynamics modeling and resource allocation optimization capabilities.

Keywords

Status: accepted

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