Multi-Agent Modelling and Simulation of Hospital Acquired Infection Propagation Dynamics by Contact Transmission in Hospital Wards

Abstract

Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) are recognized worldwide as a major threat to hospital users. In this study, we present the Multi-Agent modelling and simulation of HAI propagation dynamics through exogenous cross-infection by a contact transmission route in a hospital ward. The model relies on the Event Based Modelling and Simulation approach. It is meant to deal with a wide range of pathogen types and scenarios of their spread within a hospital environment, which can be extended to integrate relevant emerging factors in the dynamic evolution of HAIs. The Agent-Based application was validated through a virtual simulation of a case study built in a Unity 3D environment, which generates a real time infection risk map. The simulation represents the building and its users in the situation of HAI risk in a coherent and dynamic system. It allows for the visualization of contamination propagation due to human spatial behaviour and activities. The case study was tested through a what-if scenario, allowing for the real-time visualization of transmission and assessing the effectiveness of different prevention and control measures on pathogen propagation. Of further interest was an understanding of the influences of architectural design and space distribution.