Abstract
Paper aims The aim is to develop a vaccine distribution routing model (VDRM) in order to support governments to mitigate the pandemic caused by COVID-19. Originality As far as we know, no metaheuristics has been developed for vaccine distribution, and specifically, to support the Brazilian government. Research method A metaheuristic is developed based on the combination and adaptation of GRASP (Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure) with VND (Variable Neighborhood Descent), considering different refinement operators. Finally, as a way of validating the model, a numerical application in the state of Pernambuco (Brazil) was performed. Main findings Metaheuristic proved to be effective for developing adequate planning for the allocation of ampoules with vaccines to combat COVID-19. Effective analysis was obtained in the evaluation of the proposed algorithm, both in terms of computational effort and the quality of the final solution. An efficiency of approximately 75% was obtained in relation to the current distribution procedure adopted by the state of Pernambuco. Implications for theory and practice To mitigate disease, adequate logistics for transporting and distributing vaccines is essential, especially in emergency situations to face pandemic crises. Thus, the developed metaheuristic can support governments and companies in any situation demanded, making the decision of how the distribution of the ampoules will be more agile.
Highlights
Paper aims: The aim is to develop a vaccine distribution routing model (VDRM) in order to support governments to mitigate the pandemic caused by COVID-19
Research method: A metaheuristic is developed based on the combination and adaptation of GRASP (Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure) with VND (Variable Neighborhood Descent), considering different refinement operators
One of the main challenges of the 21st century is facing the transmission of the new coronavirus (Sars-CoV-2), which triggered the disease named COVID-19, which causes more than 4 million deaths, reported until mid-August 2021 (World Health Organization, 2021)
Summary
One of the main challenges of the 21st century is facing the transmission of the new coronavirus (Sars-CoV-2), which triggered the disease named COVID-19, which causes more than 4 million deaths, reported until mid-August 2021 (World Health Organization, 2021). It is essential that there is logistical planning for the distribution of these vaccines, as ensuring that they are available reliably to end-users is a major challenge (Yang et al, 2021), especially for poor communities (Petroianu et al, 2020). Another existing problem is that, in a scenario of vaccine distribution through vehicles, the exact routing models for real problems of great magnitudes require a high computational effort to find solutions (in some cases, taking days), despite providing great results (El-Sherbeny, 2010).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
