Abstract

A model based on a quantum algorithm is used to study the spread of HIV virus and to predict infection rates on individuals who are not aware of their particular condition. The model makes an analogy between quantum systems and individuals who are infected by the disease. Individuals are represented by two-level quantum systems (quantum "bit"), and the interactions among individuals who cause the infection are represented by unitary transformations. The population is divided into categories according to their behaviour, and the interactions among those individuals in the same category and those in different categories are simulated. The objective is to obtain statistical data on the number of infected individuals depending on the time for every category and for the entire population. Besides, we analyse the impact of the evolution of the disease on individuals who have not knowledge of their specific sanitary condition. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.