An SIRS epidemic model of Japanese encephalitis (Q1326624)

Summary: An epidemiological model of the dynamics of Japanese Encephalitis (J.E.) spread coupling the SIRS (Susceptible/Infected/Removal/Susceptible) models of J.E. spread in the reservoir population and in the human population has been proposed. The basic reproductive rate \(R(0)\) in the coupled system has been worked out. Using \textit{J. L. Aron's} results [cf. Math. Biosci. 64, 249-259 (1983; Zbl 0515.92026), and ibid. 88, No. 1, 37-47 (1988; Zbl 0637.92007)], it has been observed that the disease-free system is stable in this coupled system also, if \(R(0)\) is less than unity, and if \(R(0)\) is greater than unity, the disease-free system is unstable and there exists a unique stable endemic equilibrium. The model also shows that in contrast to Aron's observations, loss of immunity is independent of the rate of exposure to the disease. This observation sheds light on the control measure of J. E. by vaccination. Passive immunization, i.e., administration of antibody at recurrent intervals is the correct method of vaccination to eradicate the disease.