Scientists study WoW glitch to understand epidemics

The Times in the UK reports that scientists have been provided with a unique opportunity to study the spread of epidemics, through an accident in World of Warcraft.

The game introduced a hindrance for the top ranking players in the game, and were surprised when it spread throughout all levels of player.  Scientists studying the spread of epidemics have long wished for a way of watching the spread of an epidemic without subjecting real populations to unacceptable levels of risk, and think that in this event they may have found it.