Transmission Dynamics of Lymphatic Filariasis: A Mathematical Approach. (17th October 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bhunu, C. P.; Mushayabasa, S.
• Other Names: Bocharov G. Academic Editor.; Figge M. T. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: ISRN biomathematics. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-10-17
• Subjects: Biomathematics -- Periodicals; Models, Biological; Biometry; Biomathematics; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; 570.151
• DOI: 10.5402/2012/930130
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-7702

Abstract

Abstract : An epidemiological model for the spread of lymphatic filariasis, a mosquito-borne infection, is developed and analysed. The epidemic thresholds known as the reproduction number and equilibria for the model are determined and stabilities analysed. Results from the analysis of the reproduction number suggest that treatment will somehow contribute to a reduction in lymphatic filariasis cases, but what it does not show is the magnitude of the reduction, a part answered by the numerical simulations. Numerical simulations show that even when all lymphatic filariasis cases displaying elephantiasis symptoms are put on treatment it will not be able to eradicate the disease. This result suggests that effective control of lymphatic filariasis may lie in treatment for those displaying symptoms as well as chemoprophylaxis for the exposed.