The report, authored by Nathaniel Hupert, incorporates some of the latest types of modelling techniques scientists use in disaster preparedness. Such models have become increasingly important to public health officials and hospital administrators.

This research set out to determine the best way a clinic could vaccinate as many as 15,000 clients in 17 hours, including such factors as how to best configure the personnel to maximize the number of clients vaccinated; and to estimate the costs and revenue of such an undertaking.

The researchers found that it was possible for the clinic to reach its target and that using a computer simulation could help them determine the most efficient use of staff, machinery, supplies, and time.

'How hospitals and public health agencies are prepared for an attack--and how they respond to the surge in patients seeking care-will determine our success in containing an attack if one happens.'' said Mark Helfand, editor of Medical Decision Making, which published the report.